Senator Natasha Akpoti of Kogi Central has made shocking accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, claiming she has been subjected to victimization, dehumanization, and denial of privileges in retaliation for rejecting his sexual advances. Akpoti, during her appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Friday, recounted troubling details of what she described as unwelcome and inappropriate advances from Akpabio, which she said have negatively impacted her political career.
According to Akpoti, the tension between her and Akpabio escalated after she refused his advances, which included a particularly alarming incident during a trip to Akwa Ibom in December 2023. Akpoti recounted how Akpabio allegedly held her hand and made suggestive comments about spending “quality moments” together at his residence. Despite her discomfort, she remained silent about the remarks, but the incident was only the beginning of a series of problematic interactions.
Akpoti went on to accuse Akpabio of blocking her motions in the Senate, most notably her repeated attempts to introduce a motion regarding the anti-corruption investigation into Ajaokuta Steel Company. She claimed that each time she tried to raise the issue, Akpabio intervened, stating that the good of the Senate did not accommodate such discussions. It was only after several attempts that her motion was eventually approved, but not before Akpabio allegedly made a troubling remark, telling her that she could “enjoy a whole lot” if she made him happy.
“I’ve been dehumanized, maligned, and all that,” Akpoti shared. “I believe this situation was just the straw that broke the camel’s back.” She emphasized the emotional toll this behavior has taken on her, noting that it has affected not only her professional life but also her personal life.
The senator described an instance where Akpabio, in an effort to sideline her, invoked his authority to remove her from the chambers after she raised an Order 10 motion to challenge the seating arrangements. According to Akpoti, this move further exacerbated her sense of injustice and mistreatment within the Senate.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Akpoti reflected on a comment Akpabio allegedly made during their interactions, likening it to a scenario where a student refuses to comply with inappropriate demands from a lecturer and suffers academic repercussions as a result. “That is exactly what I have been facing, in simple terms,” she said.
The allegations made by Senator Akpoti have raised questions about the power dynamics within the Nigerian Senate and the treatment of female senators. As the story develops, many are watching to see how the leadership in the Senate, as well as other political figures, will respond to these serious accusations of misconduct.