The All Progressives Congress has dismissed claims that the sexual harassment allegation made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio is linked to the push for women’s inclusion in governance.
Speaking on Friday in Abuja, APC’s South-South Zonal Organizing Secretary, Blessing Agbomhere, said Natasha’s accusations were a calculated attempt to remove Akpabio from office.
Agbomhere described the allegation as one of the challenges great leaders face, warning against what he called the “pull him down syndrome” often used by political opponents.
“Vilifying the number three citizen of Nigeria based on unsubstantiated allegations is unfair,” Agbomhere said. “It reflects a society where political opponents use false claims to bring down leaders.”
He praised the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for vindicating Akpabio through their resolution, adding that the matter had been put to rest.
“The committee’s resolution has cleared Akpabio of these malicious and wicked allegations. He is a leader with impeccable character, a family man, and someone deeply committed to serving his people,” he added.
Agbomhere also criticized those linking the issue to women’s representation in leadership, saying it was an attempt to mislead the public.
“As we mark the International Day for Women, I urge Nigerians to understand that these unsubstantiated allegations have nothing to do with justice or inclusion for women,” he said.
He further urged Nigerians to focus on the country’s pressing issues, such as the implementation of the N54.99 trillion 2025 budget recently signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.
“What Nigerians should be demanding now is proper implementation of the budget through a coordinated oversight from the Legislature, rather than trying to tarnish the image of the Senate before the world,” Agbomhere stated.
Warning those plotting against Akpabio, he said, “Fifth columnists must remember that what goes around comes around. Our leaders need support, not attacks and betrayal from once-trusted friends and allies.”
The APC’s statement comes amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension from the Senate, following her public clash with Akpabio over seat reassignments and the sexual harassment claims she raised against him.
