The ongoing feud between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan took a new turn on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, when women’s groups, under the Nigerian Women Crusade for Good Governance (NWCGG), issued an apology to Akpabio and the Senate. The apology came after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, which sparked significant controversy.
During a press briefing in Abuja, Cecilia Ikechukwu, the leader of the NWCGG, expressed regret over the incident, calling it an embarrassment to Nigerian women. The group argued that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions undermined the work of female politicians striving for respect and trust in the political arena. They also pointed out that Akpoti-Uduaghan has previously accused men in power of similar offenses.
The women’s groups praised Akpabio for his demonstrated commitment to women’s inclusion in politics and apologized to Nigerians for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s conduct. They emphasized that the senator should use her period of suspension to study the Senate Rules to better understand the legislative process. They urged Akpoti-Uduaghan to return from her suspension as a more responsible leader, asserting that her actions had set back the cause of women in politics by reinforcing negative stereotypes.
Furthermore, the groups called on women in public office to recognize the responsibility their positions carry to inspire and uplift others. They stressed that the actions of a few should not overshadow the progress made by many women in politics, who continue to serve with distinction. The women’s groups concluded their statement by urging Nigerians to stay committed to supporting good governance and holding leaders accountable.
This development follows the Senate’s decision on March 6, 2025, to suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. While it was initially believed her suspension was due to the sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio, the Senate later clarified that her suspension was for violating the institution’s rules. Akpoti-Uduaghan has rejected the suspension and filed a lawsuit to prevent the Senate Ethics and Privileges Committee from investigating her. The case is set to be heard on March 25.