Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, are scheduled to appear before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions (SCEPPP) over an allegation of sexual harassment.
This was confirmed by Senate Deputy Chief Whip Onyekachi Nwebonyi during an appearance on Politics Today, a program on Channels Television, on Friday.
He noted that other lawmakers would also provide testimonies before the committee regarding the accusation Natasha made against Akpabio.
“All parties, including the Senate President, will testify before the committee. His testimony, as well as those of other senators, will be documented,” Nwebonyi stated.
Natasha, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senator, had on February 28 accused Akpabio of inappropriate conduct, claiming the incident happened in December 2023 when she visited his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, alongside her husband.
She alleged that Akpabio held her hand, led her around his house, and made improper advances toward her, even in her husband’s presence.
However, Nwebonyi dismissed the allegation, stating that it was a diversionary tactic.
He argued that the Senate was unbothered by the claims, as they lacked substantial evidence.
“In criminal prosecution, there must be prima facie evidence—evidence that holds up at face value. If such evidence does not exist, then there is no case,” he said.
He further revealed that several senators were present on the day of the alleged incident and that he would serve as a key witness.
“I was there that day. I will testify and tell the world exactly what I saw,” he added.