On Wednesday, supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and members of civil society groups gathered at the National Assembly in Abuja, calling for Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step down pending an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment made against him.
The protesters, who arrived as early as 8:00 am, carried banners with inscriptions such as “Akpabio Must Go” and “Protect Women’s Rights,” demanding accountability and a thorough investigation into the serious accusations.
The protest comes after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of harassment, claiming he targeted her after she refused his sexual advances.
The allegation was made during a live television interview, escalating tensions within the Senate.
The controversy began after a seating arrangement change on February 20, 2025, which Akpoti-Uduaghan described as retaliation for rejecting Akpabio’s alleged advances.
A spokesperson for the protesting groups stated that their objective is to ensure a transparent and unbiased investigation.
“We are here to demand justice for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and to hold those in power accountable. No one is above the law,” the spokesperson said.