The Senate has clarified that there is no formal petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio regarding allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South) downplayed the allegations, stating that all lawmakers, including Akpoti-Uduaghan, must adhere to the Senate’s rules and procedures.
He described the matter as overblown and stressed that the Senate does not act based on social media speculation or media reports.
Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Monday, Adaramodu explained that the Senate only addresses issues formally brought before it.
“The Senate follows due process in handling matters. As of now, there is no official petition concerning these allegations. The only issue being reviewed is Senator Natasha’s non-compliance with the standing orders,” he stated.
Addressing the controversy over seating arrangements in the chamber, Adaramodu emphasized that all senators are required to follow protocol.
He cited Order 6 of the Senate Rules, which grants the Senate President authority to assign seats, noting that lawmakers must speak from their designated positions.
He also dismissed claims that Akpabio could suppress dissent within the Senate, arguing that any senator who follows due process when raising a point of order would be recognized.
Furthermore, Adaramodu rejected calls from former Senate President Bukola Saraki, who suggested that Akpabio should voluntarily submit to an investigation to clear his name.
He maintained that the Senate President holds no undue influence over his colleagues and is simply “first among equals.”
Meanwhile, Akpoti-Uduaghan has been summoned to appear before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions over her conduct during last week’s plenary session.