Although the controversy involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has gained public attention, the Senate has stated that it will not address the matter unless a formal petition is submitted by the public or the aggrieved lawmaker.
The dispute arose following a seating reassignment in the Senate, which led to Senator Natasha raising her voice in the chamber. She later accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, alleging that he had been obstructing her attempt to raise a motion on Ajaokuta Steel Company because she refused his advances.
However, Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu clarified that the Senate does not deliberate on issues simply because they are trending on social media. Speaking on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on Monday, March 3, 2025, he stated that the matter would only be considered if officially raised through the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
“In the Senate, we don’t operate based on social media claims. There must be an explicit complaint from a senator alleging misconduct by another senator. Only then can it be discussed and decided upon,” Adaramodu explained.
He further emphasized that without a formal petition, Senator Natasha’s allegations against the Senate President would not be brought up for deliberation.
“We do not conduct our legislative business on the pages of newspapers. It is only what is before us that we discuss,” he reiterated.
