Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Vows to Pursue Sexual Harassment Suit.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has reaffirmed her commitment to pursuing her sexual harassment lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. In a letter dated April 30, 2025, addressed to Akpabio's counsel, Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, she emphasized that her petition represents the truth of the events complained about and that further comments will be reserved for the court, which has the exclusive preserve to exercise judgment on the propriety or otherwise of the matter. 

Akpoti-Uduaghan criticized Agbakoba's request for evidence outside the court's purview, asserting that such demands reflect a misunderstanding of sexual harassment's nature as defined by global standards. She stated, "The assessment of evidence belongs to the courts alone. The nature of your demand for evidence in this manner, in the instance of your client, simply indicates a broader misconception of what truly amounts to sexual harassment as prescribed in several global protocols."

She further warned that bypassing established legal processes could undermine the rule of law, a principle Agbakoba has long championed. "Should further particulars be required, they will be furnished in the ordinary course of disclosure, subject to the direction of the Honourable Courts. Any attempt to circumvent that regulated process risks subverting the very rule-of-law values you have championed throughout your distinguished career," she noted.

The senator also highlighted the inconsistency of Akpabio's approach, noting his refusal to address the allegations within the Senate while simultaneously engaging in a media campaign through his counsel.  She argued, "The principle is elementary: a litigant may not approbate in the courts and reprobate in the press. The rule against parallel adjudication safeguards the integrity of judicial determination, preserves the fairness of proceedings, and secures the dignity of all arms of government." 

Previously, the Senate's Ethics and Privileges Committee dismissed Akpoti-Uduaghan's petition on procedural grounds, citing that she personally signed the document, which contravenes Senate rules.  Despite this, Akpoti-Uduaghan maintains that her legal action is separate from any Senate proceedings and is focused solely on seeking justice through the courts. 

The case has sparked significant public discourse on sexual harassment and gender dynamics within Nigerian politics, drawing attention to the challenges faced by women in governance and the importance of upholding ethical standards in public office. 

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