In a dramatic turn of events, Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has broken her initial silence to demand an impartial investigation into the explosive sexual harassment allegations leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Akpoti-Uduaghan recently accused Akpabio of making inappropriate advances toward her during a visit to his residence in Akwa Ibom. The allegations surfaced shortly after a contentious seating arrangement dispute in the Senate, in which her designated seat was mysteriously reassigned without explanation—an incident that sparked widespread speculation of political maneuvering.
Initially, Kingibe appeared to downplay the significance of the seating controversy, suggesting that Akpoti-Uduaghan was not the only senator affected. However, the gravity of the sexual harassment claims prompted a shift in her stance, leading to her unequivocal call for a full-scale investigation.
Addressing the matter in a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Kingibe stated:
> “I am aware of the narrative that has been going around, and to set the record straight, my actions were not to undermine her claims, but to buttress that I was not aware in the first place of any such happenings.”
She went further to reaffirm her dedication to combating sexual harassment and gender-based violence in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of justice for all.
> “Notwithstanding, I remain steadfast in the fight against all forms of violence against girls and women. As a sitting senator, I will always defend the truth and fight to right all wrongs.”
Kingibe stressed the need for a formal and transparent Senate investigation should a complaint be officially tabled.
> “Once an accusation of sexual harassment is formally brought before the Senate, it would be incumbent on the body to recognize this as a weighty issue that must be investigated thoroughly by the appropriate mechanisms within the institution of the Senate.”
As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, she positioned her office as a stronghold for justice, equity, and social justice for Nigerian women.
> “The office of the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, which I chair, stands as a pillar of hope and a watershed for equality, equity, inclusivity, and opportunity. It offers Nigerian women recourse, refuge, and the right to dignity and justice.”
Kingibe then made a direct demand for an open, transparent, and fair investigation into the allegations against Akpabio, emphasizing that justice should not be hindered by political affiliations or social status.
> “Justice, fairness, and equity must be provided for everyone regardless of gender, position, or social class. I affirm my commitment to protecting the rights of girls and women across Nigeria.”
Beyond this particular case, Kingibe used the moment to advocate for greater female representation in governance. She reaffirmed her commitment to pushing for the 35% Gender Inclusion Bill and the creation of special seats for women in political offices.
> “I align with the global community in advocating for increased gender equity in political representation and across all sectors of our society. To this end, I am focused on advancing the 35% Gender Inclusion Bill and the establishment of special seats for women to ensure greater participation of women in governance.”
She disclosed that her proposed Gender Equity Bill 2025 (SB 743) had already passed the first reading and was awaiting a second reading, a significant step in institutionalizing gender equality in Nigeria’s political landscape.
> “The Gender Equity Bill 2025, SB 743, which I am pushing, has passed the first reading and is now awaiting the second reading. I remain resolute in my service to the Nigerian people, undeterred by falsehoods, and committed to fostering a democracy where justice, fairness, and equity prevail.”
With Kingibe’s bold stance, the pressure is now on the Senate to take decisive action. Will the upper legislative chamber rise to the occasion and conduct a thorough investigation, or will political interests overshadow the demand for justice?
As Nigerians watch closely, this case is set to test the Senate’s commitment to upholding the principles of accountability, fairness, and the protection of women’s rights in governance.
PIONEER NEWS 