Lawan Refutes Reports Of Defending Senator Natasha Against Akpabio

Former Senate President, Senator Ahmad Lawan, has dismissed reports suggesting he defended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against allegations of sexual harassment involving the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

In a statement signed by his media adviser, Dr Ezrel Tabiowo, Lawan described the claims as “entirely false and a gross misrepresentation of the facts.”

He clarified that his comments during the Senate plenary on March 6, 2025, were strictly procedural and had no connection to the allegations against Akpabio.

Lawan explained that he had only cautioned the Senate against adopting a recommendation from the Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, which proposed the withdrawal of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s security aides.

According to him, approving such a move could set a dangerous precedent that might be exploited against lawmakers in the future.

“At no point did Senator Lawan defend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan or take sides in the allegations against the Senate President,” he said. “His intervention was purely a matter of principle, reflecting his commitment to due process and the rule of law.”

Lawan urged the public and media to disregard any contrary insinuations, emphasising his dedication to the stability and integrity of the National Assembly.