Senator Natasha Akpoti Claims Suspension is Attempt to Silence Her After Alleging Sexual Harassment Against Senate President Akpabio

Senator Natasha Akpoti has accused the Nigerian Senate of attempting to silence her after she made allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Speaking exclusively on Sky News, Akpoti revealed that after submitting a formal petition regarding the harassment claim, her suspension from the Senate followed almost immediately.

"I made an allegation of sexual harassment against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and after submitting my petition, the next thing they did was suspend me," Akpoti said during the interview. "They are looking for a way to silence me, which is why I got suspended. This is nothing but a clear attempt to intimidate me into retracting my statement."

Akpoti, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, has been vocal about the alleged misconduct, asserting that her suspension is politically motivated and designed to shut her down after raising such serious concerns. Her claims have raised alarm in the political sphere, with many questioning the timing of her suspension and the validity of her allegations.

While Akpoti did not provide specific details about the alleged incident, she has continued to stand by her accusations, stating that the move to suspend her was an effort to discredit her and suppress any further discussions on the matter. She also noted that her petition was submitted following what she described as a "serious personal experience" with Akpabio.

The Senate has yet to comment publicly on Akpoti's allegations or provide any clarity on the reasons for her suspension, which many have described as sudden and unprecedented. Legal experts and human rights advocates have raised concerns over the process and the lack of transparency in the handling of the matter.

Akpoti has called for a full investigation into the allegations, asserting that there should be no room for harassment or abuse of power within the Senate. She has vowed to continue fighting for justice, despite the suspension, urging Nigerians to support her cause and demand accountability from the leadership of the Senate.

As the controversy unfolds, all eyes will be on the Nigerian Senate and its leadership to address the serious allegations and ensure that the rights of all members, regardless of gender or position, are respected and protected.