…Petition Declared Invalid as Senator Fails to Appear Before Ethics Committee Abuja – The Nigerian Senate has ruled against a petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, dismissing the allegations of sexual harassment due to procedural flaws. During a Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions hearing on Wednesday, Chairman Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South) declared the petition null and void. He cited a violation of Order 40 of the Senate Standing Orders, noting that Akpoti-Uduaghan personally signed the petition rather than securing an endorsement from a third party, which rendered it procedurally defective. Furthermore, Imasuen pointed out that the matters raised in the petition were already subject to court proceedings, making them sub judice and beyond the committee’s jurisdiction. Despite being scheduled to appear before the committee, Akpoti-Uduaghan was absent at the designated session. The hearing, set for 2:00 PM, commenced at 2:58 PM when the chairman arrived after waiting for both Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South). While Adaramodu arrived at 2:50 PM, Akpoti-Uduaghan failed to attend the meeting. The petition initially reached the Ethics Committee two weeks earlier following a plenary session incident involving Akpoti-Uduaghan. In response, Senate President Akpabio directed the committee to investigate the matter and submit findings within two weeks. During Senate discussions, Adaramodu highlighted that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s public confrontation with the Senate President over seat allocation had negatively impacted the legislative body’s reputation. He also referenced her interview with Brekete Family on Human Rights Radio and TV, where she reiterated the allegations against Akpabio. Following these deliberations, the Senate upheld the Ethics Committee’s recommendation, officially discarding the petition as invalid. Senate Rules and Ethics Guidelines READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Abuja – The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), has stated that there is currently no formal petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio concerning allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show, monitored in Abuja, Adaramodu dismissed the accusations as baseless, emphasizing that all senators, including Akpoti-Uduaghan, must adhere to the rules governing Senate proceedings. Senate Affairs Are Not Governed by Media Trends Adaramodu clarified that the Senate, as an institution, does not react to media speculations or issues raised on television programs and social media platforms. He reiterated that legislative matters are conducted strictly within the Senate or the House of Representatives, and any serious allegation must be submitted as a formal petition before it can be considered. “The Senate does not operate based on trending topics on social media. For an issue to be investigated, there must be a formal complaint or petition brought before the Senate,” Adaramodu explained. “As of now, there is no formal case against the Senate President. The only issue at hand pertains to Senator Natasha’s non-compliance with the Senate’s standing orders.” Senate Rules Must Be Followed Addressing the controversy surrounding seating arrangements, which triggered the dispute, Adaramodu stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan must abide by Senate rules. He cited Order 6 of the Senate’s standing orders, which grants the Senate President the authority to allocate seats to lawmakers. According to him, all senators are expected to speak from their designated seats, and any violation of this rule disrupts order in the chamber. He further argued that if a senator follows due process in raising a point of order, no Senate President would deny them the right to speak. He dismissed claims that the Senate President could intimidate his colleagues by denying them recognition, emphasizing that the Senate President remains one among equals. Senate Rejects Calls for External Investigation The Senate also rejected the call made by former Senate President Bukola Saraki, urging Akpabio to submit himself for an independent investigation. Lawmakers aligned with Akpabio dismissed the request, asserting that the issue does not warrant an external probe. Meanwhile, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been summoned to appear before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to address concerns regarding her conduct during plenary last week. Nigeria’s National Assembly Website READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Key Highlights: Allegations Against Senate President Akpabio A major controversy has erupted in Nigeria’s political landscape following allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The lawmaker from Kogi Central, representing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), made the claims during an interview on Arise TV. According to Natasha, the issue began on December 8, 2023, during a pre-birthday invitation extended to her and her husband at Akpabio’s residence in Uyo. She alleged that Akpabio made inappropriate advances, suggesting they spend “quality time” together. The senator further claimed that after attempting to raise a motion on corruption in the Ajaokuta Steel Company, Akpabio insinuated that she needed to “take care” of him to receive favorable treatment in the Senate. Akpabio’s Wife Dismisses Allegations, Threatens Lawsuit In response, Mrs. Ekaette Akpabio, wife of the Senate President, dismissed the allegations as fabrications. She described her husband as a disciplined and principled leader who has consistently supported women’s inclusion in governance. She further stated that Natasha and her husband had previously enjoyed a cordial relationship with their family, making the allegations questionable. Mrs. Akpabio has threatened legal action against Natasha for defamation. Legal and Political Reactions The accusations have sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria: Women Groups Demand Justice Several women advocacy groups, including Women Active in Politics (WAiP), have called for First Lady Oluremi Tinubu to intervene and ensure women’s protection in politics. Eliana Martins, National President of FIDA, stated that while Natasha must provide evidence for her claims, her allegations should not be dismissed without due process. She stressed the importance of ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for women in Nigerian politics. The Impact on Female Politicians Women in Nigerian politics face significant challenges, and cases like this may discourage more women from participating in governance. Experts urge the Senate to create a fair and transparent system to address gender discrimination and harassment allegations effectively. How the Seating Arrangement Issue Began It all started last Thursday when I arrived early at the Senate chambers, signed my attendance, and proceeded to my usual seat—the last one by the door. To my surprise, a Sergeant-at-Arms informed me that my seat had been reassigned and that I had to move to the far end. When I inquired about the change, I was told it was at the instruction of the Senate President. The previous day, I had attended the session without any prior notification regarding this seat change. I questioned the reason behind it, expressing that I was comfortable where I had always sat. Since I had not been informed earlier, I felt blindsided and refused to move. I wasn’t even aware of the exact location of my new seat, only that it was supposedly at the far end. As I hesitated, some senators messaged me, warning that the seat reassignment was a “trap” and urging me to comply. Soon, the Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, approached me and advised me to adhere to the change, reassuring me that the issue could be addressed later. However, I expressed my frustration, pointing out that this was not the first time my privileges had been withdrawn. I insisted that I should at least be given an explanation before moving. As I stood my ground, I was accused of violating Senate rules. The Senate President then prepared to read my suspension. At that moment, I invoked Order 10—a provision that allows a senator to immediately raise concerns if their rights and privileges have been infringed upon. However, instead of allowing me to speak, the Senate President ordered the Sergeant-at-Arms to remove me from the chambers, setting the stage for my suspension. Denial of Rights The seat change was merely the tipping point in a series of events where I felt dehumanized and maligned. The struggle for my rightful place in the Senate did not start that day—it had been building for months. The Root of the Conflict The issues with the Senate President can be traced back to December 8, 2023—the day before our shared birthday. We were in Akwa Ibom State for his birthday celebration. My husband and I, along with some of his close associates, were present at his residence. During a private tour of his house, he made an inappropriate remark, implying that he intended to spend “quality moments” with me there. Shocked, I distanced myself from the conversation, hoping my husband had not heard. Later that night, my husband sensed something was wrong and asked about the conversation. Not wanting to ruin the occasion or his admiration for the Senate President, I downplayed the incident. However, from that moment, things began to change in my interactions with him. Attempts to Suppress My Legislative Work In February, I sought to present a motion on corruption in Ajaokuta Steel Company. I submitted it multiple times, only for it to be repeatedly sidelined. When I confronted the Senate President in his office about it, he suggested that I could “enjoy a whole lot” if I “took care of him.” I was appalled and refused to engage. Even after my husband personally pleaded with him in London to allow my motion, he dismissed the request, claiming he was “protecting me.” Eventually, my motion was only taken when the Deputy Senate President presided. The Public Embarrassment at the Nightclub Remark The most public humiliation came when he referred to me inappropriately during a Senate session, implying I belonged to a nightclub. This was no slip of the tongue; he had previously made suggestive remarks on several occasions. Following the public outcry, I received a midnight call from the House Leader, Senator Michael Bamidele, who warned that if the Senate President was forced to resign, I would be held responsible. This call was followed by another from the Senate President himself, who claimed his wife had been in distress because of the situation. I firmly reminded him that I was not responsible for the backlash he was facing. Conclusion What I have endured in
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ABUJA – Federal lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has filed a defamation lawsuit amounting to N100.3 billion against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The case, lodged at the Federal Capital Territory High Court (FCT), Abuja, stems from allegations of reputational damage caused by a social media post. According to Akpoti-Uduaghan, Akpabio published a defamatory post on Facebook through his aide, Mfon Patrick, titled: “Is Local Content Committee of the Senate Natasha’s Birthright?” The post allegedly ridiculed her, suggesting she misunderstood legislative duties, emphasizing superficial appearance rather than governance. The lawsuit, referenced as CV/737/25, also names Mfon Patrick, identified as Akpabio’s Senior Legislative Aide, as a co-defendant. Akpoti-Uduaghan asserts that the publication tarnished her reputation, portraying her in a derogatory manner that undermined her credibility among colleagues and the public. Legal Demands and Court Reliefs Through her legal representative, Mr. Victor Giwa, Akpoti-Uduaghan has requested the court to: Background and Context This lawsuit follows a prior confrontation between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate President over the unauthorized reassignment of her seat in the Senate. Reports indicate that the seat adjustment occurred due to the defection of opposition lawmakers to the ruling party. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s protest against this move escalated, leading Akpabio to instruct security personnel to escort her out of the legislative chamber, a decision that sparked widespread public debate. Conclusion As of now, the court has yet to set a hearing date for the case. The unfolding legal battle highlights ongoing political tensions within the Senate, drawing national attention. Reputable News Source READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Tinubu Acknowledges National Assembly’s Role in Nation-Building President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the unwavering support of the National Assembly over the past 19 months, describing it as a driving force behind his administration’s determination to lead Nigeria toward greater development and prosperity. Speaking on Wednesday in Lagos during a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima, the leadership of the National Assembly, and its former principal officers, Tinubu expressed his gratitude for their collaboration and commitment. “Nigerians are the core of our mission. We have embarked on this transformative journey to serve, to secure a better tomorrow, and to build a brighter future for the generations to come. Your dedication to progress and value creation will bear fruit for the unborn,” Tinubu stated. The President also reaffirmed his resolve to make bold and innovative decisions that drive national growth, emphasizing that courageous actions are essential for achieving substantial change. Drawing from a Yoruba proverb, he remarked, “It is only a courageous dog that will capture the animal in the bush.” National Assembly Leaders Express Support Senate President Godswill Akpabio lauded Tinubu’s courage and commitment to reforms, pledging the legislature’s unwavering backing. “On this journey of restoration, transformation, and nation-building, you are not alone. The National Assembly stands with you every step of the way,” Akpabio said. Highlighting the administration’s economic strides, Akpabio noted achievements such as the oversubscription of Nigeria’s Eurobond, improved ease of doing business, and growing investor confidence. “Your bold reforms and leadership have drawn investors to Nigeria, and we are optimistic about the benefits that will continue to unfold,” he added. Similarly, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, commended the President for his respect and collaboration with the legislature. Abbas pointed out that several key figures in Tinubu’s administration, including the President, Vice President, and other top officials, were former members of the National Assembly. “The National Assembly is more united and fulfilled than ever before. We appreciate your responsiveness to our needs and your dedication to alleviating poverty. This historic collaboration brings hope to Nigerians,” Abbas noted. A Unified Vision for National Growth The meeting underscored a shared commitment to advancing Nigeria’s development agenda. Tinubu’s administration and the National Assembly continue to work hand-in-hand, fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation for the nation’s progress. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has drawn a stark comparison, describing Nigeria’s economic condition as akin to being on “life support” when President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023. Akpabio made this remark during his 2024 Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Programme, held at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium in Akwa Ibom State. As the representative of Akwa Ibom Northwest Senatorial District, Akpabio called for national solidarity to support President Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms. He highlighted critical measures undertaken by the administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies, the floating of the naira, and tax policy reforms, as essential for reviving the economy. Speaking on the enormity of the challenges, Akpabio recounted a candid exchange with Tinubu:“I asked him, ‘Are you still excited about being president after inheriting this economy?’ He replied, ‘I didn’t know it was this bad.’” Despite the daunting situation, Akpabio expressed confidence in Tinubu’s ability to replicate his success as the former governor of Lagos State. “You did it in Lagos, and you’ll do it again for Nigeria. It’s only a matter of time. Our prayers are with you, and God will grant you wisdom to lead us to prosperity,” Akpabio said. Empowering Constituents and Advocating Peace At the event, Akpabio urged beneficiaries of the empowerment programme to maximize the tools provided for economic improvement instead of selling them. He assured attendees of sufficient distribution of food supplies beyond Ikot Ekpene to other senatorial districts in the state. He also lauded Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno for fostering peace and inclusivity, emphasizing that peace is crucial for sustainable development. “Governor Eno has embraced all Akwa Ibom citizens, irrespective of their political affiliations,” he noted. Akpabio praised the governor’s efforts in distributing food aid to both APC and PDP members and announced additional resources to promote unity and welfare. Leadership and Collaboration in the Senate Highlighting Senate operations, Akpabio commended Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro for championing constructive collaboration. “Every senator has an equal voice, regardless of their party. Opposition is vital, but it must remain constructive,” Akpabio said. Senator Moro acknowledged Akpabio’s impactful leadership, adding: “It takes wisdom to provide lasting solutions rather than temporary fixes.” The programme also drew high-profile attendees, including the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpo Ekpo, and other distinguished leaders across political affiliations. Collective Efforts for a Brighter Future In his concluding remarks, Akpabio emphasized the importance of collective efforts to build a stronger Nigeria, assuring his constituents of his unwavering commitment to impactful developmental initiatives. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Uyo – Senate President Godswill Akpabio has revealed that the 10th National Assembly (NASS) wholeheartedly endorsed the establishment of regional development commissions under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. This initiative aims to drive empowerment and growth to grassroots communities across Nigeria. Speaking during his 2024 Empowerment/Constituency Briefing on Monday at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, Akpabio, who represents Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District (Akwa Ibom Northwest) in Akwa Ibom State, highlighted the importance of regional commissions in addressing developmental needs. He called on the South-South and South-East regions to continue supporting Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing the president’s dedication to improving these areas. Akpabio particularly praised his senatorial district for their overwhelming support, noting that out of 160,000 votes for President Tinubu, over 119,000 came from his district. In his remarks, Akpabio stated: “Today is not about speeches but about expressing gratitude to the people of Akwa Ibom, especially the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District. Thank you for your wisdom, vision, and re-electing me into the 10th Senate. “Votes from my senatorial district for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu exceeded the combined votes from five states in the South-East. The South-East must rise to prove its worth. The president has shown love for the South-East by signing the South-East Development Commission into law.” Akpabio outlined the broader vision behind the development commissions, explaining that NASS prioritized grassroots empowerment to ensure equitable development across Nigeria. He revealed the current status of various commissions: He also noted that key ministries were allocated not based on regional voting patterns but on specific developmental needs. For example, the Ministry of Works was assigned to tackle ecological and infrastructure challenges in the South-East and South-South regions, while Akwa Ibom was granted the Ministry of Petroleum Resources (Gas), recognizing its vast gas reserves. Akpabio praised Tinubu’s decision to support the South-South region by enabling it to produce the Senate President, emphasizing the role of leadership in fostering regional development. Empowerment Initiatives: During the event, Akpabio distributed various empowerment items across the ten local government areas in his senatorial district. These items included: This initiative underscores Akpabio’s commitment to grassroots development and providing practical tools to enhance livelihoods in his constituency. READ ASLO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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A Nigerian senator, Osita Izunaso of Imo West, has revealed details of a key meeting in London where late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah allegedly committed to defecting from the Young Progressives Party (YPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking during a valedictory session in honor of Senator Ubah, Izunaso recounted the meeting, which involved Senate President Godswill Akpabio. He noted that this meeting was instrumental in securing Ubah’s defection and solidifying APC’s dominance in the Senate. Details of the London Agreement According to Izunaso, the London meeting was a pivotal moment in Ubah’s decision to leave the YPP for the APC. He explained that Akpabio sought assurances from Ubah during their discussions: “You [Akpabio] asked him, ‘Are you sure you will join the APC?’ and Ubah confirmed his commitment. Despite ongoing court battles involving Ubah, he vowed to switch allegiance immediately,” Izunaso said. Izunaso further noted that following the meeting, Akpabio promised to inform Nigeria’s Commander-in-Chief about Ubah’s decision. True to his word, Ubah officially joined the APC in October 2023, marking a significant political shift. Ubah’s Impact on APC in Anambra State After his defection, Ubah contributed to strengthening the APC’s presence in Anambra State, a region where the party has historically struggled. From 2019 until his defection, Ubah had been the only senator representing the YPP. His move further increased APC’s already substantial majority in the Senate. Controversy Over Foreign Meetings The reference to the “popular London meeting” highlights a growing trend among Nigerian public officials to conduct political negotiations in foreign countries such as the UK, France, and the US. These meetings often draw criticism due to their questionable funding and lack of transparency. Despite widespread disapproval from Nigerians, such practices remain common among senators, governors, and even presidents. Ubah’s Legal Troubles Ubah’s political journey has not been without challenges. In December 2019, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) filed criminal charges against him and his company, Capital Oil, over alleged false claims and a debt of ₦135 billion. The Federal High Court in Lagos charged Ubah and his company on eight counts related to this alleged indebtedness. In June 2023, Justice Nicholas Oweibo issued criminal summonses against Ubah and Capital Oil, underscoring the legal battles that have shadowed his career. Conclusion Ifeanyi Ubah’s defection to the APC underscores the complex dynamics of Nigerian politics, where party allegiance can shift under strategic negotiations. While his contributions to the APC are notable, the ongoing criticisms of foreign political meetings and his unresolved legal issues cast a shadow over his legacy. READ ALSO:
