Amnesty International has urged Nigerian authorities to launch an independent and impartial investigation into a high-profile sexual harassment allegation. These allegations were made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The global human rights organisation emphasised that ignoring these claims reinforces a culture that discourages survivors from seeking justice, allowing perpetrators to act with impunity.
“The weight and scale of the allegations of sexual harassment are one more pressing reason for establishing an independent, resourceful, and impartial investigation,” Amnesty International said in a statement. “The National Assembly must not continue to look away while the allegations remain and are being trivialised, unaddressed, and ignored.”
The Allegations Against Akpabio
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan came forward in February 2025, accusing Akpabio of making inappropriate advances towards her on December 8, 2023. She further alleged that, after rejecting these advances, her legislative efforts faced obstruction.
Akpabio has categorically denied the allegations. He asserts his commitment to gender equality, referencing his past recognition as a “gender-friendly” governor of Akwa Ibom State.
Suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan Sparks Outrage
The controversy deepened on March 6, 2025, when the Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. The suspension, recommended by the Senate’s Committee on Ethics and Privileges, cited violations of Senate rules. These include failing to sit in her assigned seat, speaking without recognition, engaging in disruptive behaviour, and also using “abusive language” against Senate leadership.
Her petition regarding the sexual harassment allegations faced dismissal on procedural grounds because she signed it herself, which the committee deemed inappropriate.
Women’s Rights Groups Rally Behind Akpoti-Uduaghan
Following her suspension, civil society organisations and women’s rights groups have condemned the Senate’s actions. They also organised protests under the banner “We are all Natasha.” Protesters argue that her suspension is an attempt to silence her and discourage other women from speaking out against misconduct in political spaces.
“The fear of not being believed, or even being blamed, is already creating a dangerous culture of silence that prevents women who have faced sexual harassment from seeking justice,” Amnesty International said. “The tide of sexual impunity against women and girls must be turned now.”
Amnesty International: “Devastating Consequences” Await If Justice Is Denied
Amnesty International emphasised the broader implications of the government’s inaction.
“Blatant failure of the authorities to investigate the allegations raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan will have devastating consequences, including perpetuating a system that makes it increasingly difficult for survivors of sexual harassment to get justice while allowing perpetrators to get away with gross human rights violations.”
The organisation further stressed that “this is one case that the authorities can use to show that there is zero tolerance for sexual harassment—no matter who is involved.”
Gender Inequality in Nigerian Politics
The case has reignited conversations about gender inequality in Nigeria’s political system. Women hold only a small fraction of seats in the National Assembly, and systemic barriers continue to discourage their participation.
“We cannot afford to let this moment pass without demanding accountability,” said a spokesperson for a Nigerian women’s rights organization. “If the Senate refuses to investigate, it sets a dangerous precedent that powerful men can act without consequence.”
The Call for Accountability
Calls for an independent probe into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations continue to gain momentum both within and outside Nigeria. Many believe that such an inquiry is essential to ensuring accountability, protecting human rights, and fostering a political environment where all individuals—regardless of gender—can participate without fear of harassment or retribution.
