Senate President Godswill Akpabio has been honored for his leadership and commitment to gender-friendly policies, inclusivity, and fairness in the Nigerian Senate.
The award was presented by Female Legislative Aides of the 10th National Assembly, who commended Akpabio for fostering a supportive environment for women in politics. During their visit, they praised his efforts to promote fairness and female participation in governance.
In response, Akpabio reaffirmed his dedication to gender equality and pledged continued support for policies that enhance women’s roles in government.
The recognition comes just a day after the Senate suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following her sexual harassment allegation against Akpabio.
On March 6, 2025, the Senate barred Akpoti-Uduaghan from office for six months, withdrawing her allowances and security. The suspension followed the Senate ethics committee’s dismissal of her petition on procedural grounds, with officials linking her removal to a dispute over seating arrangements.
Akpoti-Uduaghan—one of only four female senators—had accused Akpabio in a February 28 TV interview of making unwanted advances toward her in 2023. On Thursday, after being prevented from speaking in the Senate and escorted out by security, she declared, “This injustice will not be sustained.”
Akpabio has denied the allegation, stating, “At no time did I sexually harass Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.”
Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the suspension, calling it an attempt to silence Akpoti-Uduaghan and suppress the allegations against Akpabio.
PDP National Publicity Secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba criticized the decision, arguing that the swift suspension without an open investigation undermines fairness and Senate integrity.
“The hasty suspension not only negates parliamentary conventions but also portrays the Senate as an institution that condones and shields misconduct,” the PDP statement read.
The opposition also noted that the suspension deprives the people of Kogi Central of representation. Additionally, the party pointed to past allegations against Akpabio, including claims by Dr. Joi Nunieh, former acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and corruption probes related to his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.
With protests already erupting, the PDP urged the Senate to reinstate Akpoti-Uduaghan and conduct a fair investigation to uphold its credibility.
