The Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has stated that he and the Senate have been traumatised by what he described as the “baseless sexual harassment allegations” made against him by the suspended senator representing Kogi Central, Mrs Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Meanwhile, the Senate Leader, Senator Bamidele Opeyemi, has insisted that Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for gross misconduct, not because of her allegations against Akpabio.

Akpabio and the Senate have faced heavy criticism following the suspension of the female lawmaker, who was sanctioned for six months by federal legislators.

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Speaking at an event to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD), Akpabio reiterated his innocence, stating that he had become her latest target and that her previous allegations had also proven to be false.

He said, “It was only yesterday that I realised that this controversy arose simply because of a change in seating arrangement. That was when all these allegations emerged.

“The alleged incident supposedly took place on 8th December, a day before my birthday, which was publicly celebrated at the stadium in 2023. Yet, from that date, neither I nor my wife nor any Nigerian heard anything about it – not even her husband. There was no mention of sexual harassment until her committee assignment and seat were changed.

“Have you ever considered the impact of these allegations on those she has accused in the past? None of them has been proven. Do you realise the damage this has caused to the 10th Senate and its reputation? These baseless allegations are harmful,” he said.

“Look at these distinguished women here today. They have interacted with me countless times. Have I ever harassed any of you? Or is it that the accuser believes you are not beautiful?” he asked rhetorically.

The controversy surrounding the senator’s suspension continues to generate debate, with many questioning the timing and motivations behind the allegations.