The Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions has dismissed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which alleged sexual harassment and abuse of office, declaring it “dead on arrival.”

The committee, on Wednesday, cited procedural violations and legal constraints as reasons for its decision.

During the hearing, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Neda Imasuen, referenced Order 40 of the Senate Standing Orders, stating that Akpoti-Uduaghan had signed the petition herself rather than having it endorsed by another party, thereby rendering it procedurally invalid. He further noted that the issues raised in the petition were already before the courts, making them sub judice and beyond the Senate’s jurisdiction.

Meanwhile, Akpabio has denied the allegations of sexual harassment made against him by the Kogi lawmaker.

On 20 February 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, rejected her allocated seat in the Senate chamber and publicly challenged the Senate President’s directive.

The senator has accused Akpabio of harassment and has filed a defamation lawsuit against him, seeking N100 billion in damages. In response, the Akpabio-led upper legislative chamber has referred her to the Senate’s disciplinary committee.

In July 2024, Akpabio apologised to Akpoti-Uduaghan over a controversial nightclub remark directed at her.

On Wednesday, 5 March 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan was absent when the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct commenced its probe into allegations that she had failed to adhere to Senate rules.

After waiting for an hour, Committee Chairman Senator Neda Imasuen expressed disappointment over her absence. “We have waited, but unfortunately, she has not appeared. I hope that before we conclude these proceedings, she will join us,” he stated.

He emphasised that the committee was acting within its mandate, clarifying that “every petition referred to us originates from the entire Senate, and we have the authority to deliberate on such matters. In this instance, the issue was brought before us on 25 February by Senate Spokesperson Senator Yemi Adaramodu—nothing more, nothing less.”

Despite her absence, Senator Imasuen reiterated his hope that Akpoti-Uduaghan would appear before the committee before proceedings concluded. He stressed that his colleague had been properly notified of the meeting.