The Nigerian Senate erupted in chaos as lawmakers clashed over Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. While she sought committee review, opposing senators argued the matter was already in court. The dispute raises concerns about legislative procedures and political accountability in Nigeria.
The Nigerian Senate was thrown into turmoil on Wednesday as lawmakers clashed over a petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The heated session underscored deep divisions within the chamber over procedural rules and the boundaries of legislative authority.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan invoked Order 10 of the Senate Rules, seeking to have her petition formally admitted and referred to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. However, her move was met with immediate resistance from some lawmakers.
Senator Mohammed Monguno countered her request by citing Order 40, arguing that the Senate lacked jurisdiction to deliberate on the matter since it was already before the courts. He maintained that discussing the issue would constitute contempt of court and urged his colleagues to respect judicial proceedings.
“The power to debate this matter has been taken away,” Monguno insisted, referring to an ongoing lawsuit filed by Akpabio’s wife, Unoma Ekaete Akpabio.
Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele also criticized the decision to accept the petition, stating that Senate rules prohibit a senator from filing a petition against the leadership without backing from constituents. He suggested that Akpabio’s decision to allow the petition might have been an attempt to avoid appearing biased.
As tensions escalated, calls for a closed-door session grew louder, with lawmakers divided on how to proceed. The incident has further fueled debates on legislative integrity, accountability, and the role of personal interests in Nigeria’s political landscape.
