Senate Drama: Akpabio vs. Natasha and the Lessons for Nigeria

 

By Yusuf Kanhu

 

The recent altercation between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan on the Senate floor has sparked widespread debate, culminating in serious allegations of sexual harassment. As National Coordinator of the Citizens Renewed Hope Movement of Nigeria, I feel compelled to lend my voice to this matter and highlight the lessons that Nigerians, particularly our leaders, must learn.

The Senate, as the highest legislative body in a presidential system of government, is a place where laws are made, policies are debated, and national interests are represented. It operates on well-established rules, procedures, and decorum, all of which are crucial for maintaining order and effective governance. From the video evidence of the incident, Senator Natasha openly refused to comply with a seat reallocation directive issued by the Senate President. She insisted on being recognized from a preferred seat, leading to a prolonged argument with Senator Akpabio.

As citizens, we must acknowledge that the Senate has mechanisms for resolving conflicts internally. A procedural disagreement should not have escalated to the level of a sexual harassment allegation, especially when the claim was not made immediately or communicated through appropriate channels. Given Senator Natasha’s history of being vocal and assertive on issues she believes in, the delayed nature of her allegation raises concerns about its credibility.

As an organization that upholds the rule of law and constitutional governance, we are deeply disappointed in the way Senator Natasha has handled this matter. Accusations of such gravity should not be used as political tools; rather, they must be treated with the seriousness they deserve. It is highly inappropriate, suspicious, and unbecoming of a serving senator to level such allegations in a way that appears calculated and scandalous. The Senate must remain a space where procedural matters are addressed professionally, without undue sensationalism.

In a recent interview on Arise TV, Senator Ireti Kingibe, one of the only four female senators in the National Assembly, stated that Senator Natasha had never raised any concerns about sexual harassment within their caucus. This statement further questions the legitimacy of the claims. As the Citizens Renewed Hope Movement of Nigeria, we stand firmly against any form of sexual harassment, regardless of the victim’s status or position. However, we also believe that such allegations should not be weaponized for political gain.

Moving forward, we urge Senator Natasha to demonstrate stronger emotional intelligence in handling Senate matters. Leadership requires discipline, decorum, and adherence to institutional rules. At the same time, we call on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to continue exercising fairness and transparency in handling disputes, ensuring that the integrity of the Senate remains intact. His public apology to Senator Natasha, as seen in the video, sets a commendable precedent of maturity and leadership, which many should emulate.

Nigeria is at a critical juncture, and we must not allow internal distractions to overshadow the real issues affecting our nation. As National Coordinator of the Citizens Renewed Hope Movement of Nigeria, I encourage all Nigerians to engage in civic participation, remain vigilant, and unite in our collective struggle for a better future.

 

Kanhu is the National Coordinator, Citizens Renewed Hope Movement of Nigeria