Destiny Young| 7/05/2025
Recent events in the Nigerian Senate have left many Nigerians both bewildered and concerned. The sexual harassment allegations levelled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the subsequent media frenzy, have not only dominated headlines but also threatened to distract the Senate from its core legislative responsibilities. As citizens invested in the progress of our democracy, it is time to call for calm, focus, and a return to the real business of governance.
A Storm in the Senate
The saga began when Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment during a visit to his home in December 2023. Akpabio firmly denied the allegations, stating he was raised with strong values and has never harassed any woman. The Senate’s ethics committee investigated and dismissed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s complaint, citing procedural violations. Instead, the focus shifted to her conduct during a heated disagreement over her seating arrangement in the Senate chamber, leading to her six-month suspension.
Media Frenzy and Political Undercurrents
As the story unfolded, it quickly became a media sensation, with coverage extending far beyond Nigeria’s borders. The controversy, dubbed “NatashaGate,” was amplified by digital and traditional media, fuelling public debate and polarising opinions. Some saw Akpoti-Uduaghan as a champion for women’s rights, while others viewed her actions as misconduct deserving of disciplinary action.
However, beneath the surface, it is clear that certain political actors have seized the opportunity to launch coordinated attacks on Senate President Akpabio. These orchestrated campaigns, calling for his resignation and further investigations, appear less about seeking justice and more about destabilising the current administration and advancing personal ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections. Akpabio is seen by some as a stumbling block to these plans, making him a prime target for political machinations.
The Real Cost: Governance on Hold
While the political drama rages on, the real victims are the Nigerian people. The Senate is meant to be a place where laws are made, policies debated, and the dividends of democracy delivered to citizens. Instead, legislative work has been overshadowed by scandal and infighting. Key bills, such as those on tax reform and national development, have stalled as attention shifts to personal vendettas and media battles.
Suspending a senator is not unprecedented, but it comes at a cost. Constituents are left without representation, committees are thrown into limbo, and the already paltry number of female voices in the Senate is further diminished. The focus should be on strengthening our democracy, not tearing it down through endless distractions.
Six Months Is Not Eternity
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension is a disciplinary measure, not a life sentence. She has the opportunity to use this period for self-reflection and to prepare for a constructive return to the Senate.
Historically, suspended lawmakers have either apologised or challenged their suspensions in court and, in many cases, have been reinstated after due process. There is no need to escalate the matter into a crisis that paralyses the entire legislative arm.
A Call for Restraint and Responsibility
To those fanning the flames of this controversy for personal or political gain, a word of caution: Nigeria’s democracy is still fragile. The Senate President, like every public official, deserves the space to focus on the demanding duties of his office. Endless media attacks and calls for resignation based on unproven allegations only serve to weaken our institutions and distract from the urgent issues facing the nation.
Let us not allow power-hungry politicians and their media allies to hijack the Senate’s agenda. The people’s business must come first. We must insist on due process, respect for the rule of law, and a commitment to the greater good.
Focus on the Dividends of Democracy
At this critical juncture, what should matter most is the delivery of the dividends of democracy-improved infrastructure, better healthcare, quality education, and economic opportunities for all Nigerians. This is not the time for endless politicking and character assassination. The Senate must rise above personal grievances and work together for national progress.
Looking forward
Nigeria has seen its fair share of political scandals and power struggles. But history teaches us that when leaders are distracted by personal battles, it is the people who suffer. Let us allow Senator Akpabio to concentrate on his legislative duties. Let Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan use her suspension for reflection and, if she chooses, to seek redress through appropriate channels. Above all, let those who seek to profit from chaos remember that the eyes of the nation are watching.
It is time to move on from distractions and focus on building a better Nigeria for all.
Destiny Young is a Technology Innovation Executive and Contemporary Development Analyst, writes from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State
