Kogi Group asks Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to apologize to Sen. Akpabio
The Kogi Consultative Assembly has urged Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central District to apologize to Senate President Godswill Akpabio over her sexual harassment allegations against him. This advice comes as the Assembly believes that Akpabio acted within her constitutional duties and that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions could tarnish her political image.
Meanwhile, the Senate has stated that it cannot investigate these allegations without a formal petition from Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Despite this, groups like Afenifere and the Arewa Consultative Forum are calling for an investigation into the allegations.
In a statement released on Tuesday, March 4, the Assembly leadership noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s newness to the Senate may account for her unfamiliarity with the extant rules governing the esteemed chamber.
The statement, signed by the Assembly’s convener, Kabiru Mohammed, urged the Kogi lawmaker to take the honourable path and issue an apology to the Senate President.
Mohammed stated, “Following a thorough examination of the facts surrounding the dispute between our esteemed family member, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the Senate President, we concluded that she was at fault; accordingly, we advise her to offer an apology and bring an end to the feud, as befits an experienced politician of her standing.”
He pointed out that Akpoti-Uduaghan must stop shifting the blame and admit that her actions were the consequence of her own ignorance.
“As political stakeholders, we understand that rules are rules, and it is unpatriotic for someone of her standing to flout the Senate Standing Rules by cutting corners and attempting to implicate others.”
“Mohammed stated that the Senate President acted within the confines of his constitutional duties, making her verbal outburst unnecessary.”
