Senate passes vote of confidence in Akpabio amid sexual harassment allegation

The Nigerian Senate has passed a vote of confidence in Senate President Godswill Akpabio, despite calls for him to step aside over a sexual harassment allegation made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The resolution was adopted on Thursday following a motion by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, which received overwhelming support from lawmakers.

Bamidele, in his lead debate, stated that the Senate had chosen not to be distracted by the controversy surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension and would focus on its lawmaking and oversight duties. He also emphasized that the judiciary should handle any pending issues related to the matter.

The Senate had suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan on March 6 for alleged misconduct and violation of its Standing Rules. However, the Kogi lawmaker rejected the suspension, claiming it was an attempt to deny her justice regarding her allegations against Akpabio.