Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has made serious allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of corruption and a troubling pattern of abusing women. In a recent interview with Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie on the “Untold Stories” program, Atiku revealed his concerns, stating, “Not only was he (Akpabio) corrupt, but he was also in the habit of abusing women.” The former VP’s comments have sparked intense debate, with accusations of misconduct circulating around Akpabio for several months.
These latest allegations follow previous accusations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, claiming he made inappropriate advances during a motion she was promoting. According to the senator, Akpabio suggested that the motion could proceed if she “took care” of him, adding that she should also spend private time with him at his residence. Akpabio has consistently denied these claims, and no formal charges have been filed against him in relation to these allegations.
Atiku’s remarks echo these earlier accusations, intensifying calls for accountability within the Senate. In response to the accusations, Atiku has urged President Bola Tinubu and the Senate leadership to launch a thorough and impartial investigation. He emphasized the need for an open and transparent inquiry into Akpabio’s actions, arguing that the seriousness of the claims requires prompt attention from the highest levels of government.
Atiku also highlighted the broader implications of these allegations for the safety and wellbeing of female lawmakers. “With only four women currently serving in the Senate, it is imperative that we foster an environment where female legislators can serve without fear of harassment or intimidation,” Atiku stated. His comments reflect growing concerns about the lack of gender equality and the hostile environment many female politicians face in Nigerian politics.
The accusations have sparked a wider conversation about gender-based violence and harassment in Nigerian political institutions. Female politicians, especially those in leadership positions, have often reported a range of abusive behaviors, from verbal harassment to threats of violence. These reports have fueled calls for more effective measures to ensure that women can work in the political sphere without fear of exploitation.
Akpabio’s office has responded to the allegations, vehemently denying any wrongdoing. “The claims made against me are baseless and politically motivated,” Akpabio’s spokesperson said in a statement issued shortly after Atiku’s interview. The Senate President’s camp insists that these accusations are part of a larger smear campaign intended to undermine his leadership and reputation.
As the situation develops, the focus now turns to whether President Tinubu and the Senate will take meaningful action to address these serious claims. With public opinion divided, the outcome of any investigation will have significant implications not only for Akpabio but also for the broader fight against harassment and abuse in Nigerian politics.
These latest allegations follow previous accusations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, claiming he made inappropriate advances during a motion she was promoting. According to the senator, Akpabio suggested that the motion could proceed if she “took care” of him, adding that she should also spend private time with him at his residence. Akpabio has consistently denied these claims, and no formal charges have been filed against him in relation to these allegations.
Atiku’s remarks echo these earlier accusations, intensifying calls for accountability within the Senate. In response to the accusations, Atiku has urged President Bola Tinubu and the Senate leadership to launch a thorough and impartial investigation. He emphasized the need for an open and transparent inquiry into Akpabio’s actions, arguing that the seriousness of the claims requires prompt attention from the highest levels of government.
Atiku also highlighted the broader implications of these allegations for the safety and wellbeing of female lawmakers. “With only four women currently serving in the Senate, it is imperative that we foster an environment where female legislators can serve without fear of harassment or intimidation,” Atiku stated. His comments reflect growing concerns about the lack of gender equality and the hostile environment many female politicians face in Nigerian politics.
The accusations have sparked a wider conversation about gender-based violence and harassment in Nigerian political institutions. Female politicians, especially those in leadership positions, have often reported a range of abusive behaviors, from verbal harassment to threats of violence. These reports have fueled calls for more effective measures to ensure that women can work in the political sphere without fear of exploitation.
Akpabio’s office has responded to the allegations, vehemently denying any wrongdoing. “The claims made against me are baseless and politically motivated,” Akpabio’s spokesperson said in a statement issued shortly after Atiku’s interview. The Senate President’s camp insists that these accusations are part of a larger smear campaign intended to undermine his his leadership and reputation.
