Senate President Godswill Akpabio has denied allegations of sexual harassment levelled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Speaking on Wednesday as the Senate resumed plenary after a week’s recess, Akpabio dismissed the allegations, stating: “At no time did I ever harass any woman. I was raised by my late single mother, who instilled in me deep respect for women. I have always upheld these values and was even recognised as the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.”

Akpabio noted that he had been inundated with calls on the matter since 25 February and was aware of the intense discourse on social media. He urged Nigerians, the media, and social media users to avoid drawing premature conclusions and instead await the court’s verdict on the matter.

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However, immediately after his remarks, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan raised a petition under Order 40, formally accusing the Senate President of sexual harassment and abuse of office. She sought permission to present her petition before the Senate chamber, which was subsequently referred to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct for review.

The controversy dates back to February, when a dispute over seat arrangements in the Senate escalated into a confrontation between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio. The incident has since fuelled tensions within the Senate, raising concerns about decorum and professional conduct within the legislative body.

On Wednesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the Senate chamber accompanied by her husband. In a moment captured before entering, she shared a brief kiss with him before proceeding to take her newly assigned seat. However, in a notable departure from parliamentary tradition, she refused to stand upon Akpabio’s arrival for the commencement of plenary, breaking from the customary display of respect for the presiding officer.