Akpabio Challenged To Defend Self Before Panel Probing Sexual Harassment Allegation

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has been challenged to defend himself before the presidential investigative panel set up to probe sexual harassment allegations made against him by the suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central.

The challenge was thrown by Mrs. Oby Ndukwe, President of Citizens Quest for Truth while featuring on Channels TV’s ‘Politics Today’ on Sunday, hosted by Seun Okinbaloye.

According to Ndukwe, the panel was inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu on April 2 to probe the claims that have drawn national outrage and stirred controversy within the National Assembly. The panel is being chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima and included key figures such as the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Attorney General of the Federation, and one representative each nominated by Akpabio and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The Senate President’s alleged decision to back out of the investigative process without issuing any public statement has raised questions about transparency and accountability at the highest levels of government.

Sources close to the matter claimed Akpabio cited “undue interference by the Executive arm” and “a lack of confidence in the neutrality of the panel” as reasons for his withdrawal. However, no official statement has been released from his office as of the time of this report.

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The controversy stemmed from months of tension between Akpabio and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who had earlier accused him of sexual harassment on a national TV.

The Senate, in a move many interpreted as retaliatory, suspended the Kogi Central senator pending the outcome of the investigation, a decision widely criticised by civil society groups and some lawmakers.

“This is not just about two individuals; it’s about institutional integrity and the protection of women in politics,” Ndukwe said during the interview, urging the Tinubu administration to ensure the investigation proceeds transparently and that both parties are held accountable.