A new report has surfaced, suggesting that Senate President Godswill Akpabio may step down in the coming week due to allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him.
According to sources cited by Sahara Reporters, this move is reportedly part of a broader strategy to facilitate his clearance by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions (SCEPPP). The alleged plan is said to also target Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who may face an indefinite suspension as a result.
Alleged Plan to Clear Akpabio and Suspend Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
Insiders claim that both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan will appear before the ethics committee in the coming week as part of a process designed to give the investigation a semblance of due process. The committee, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen, is expected to conduct an inquiry that will ultimately declare Akpabio “officially innocent” of the allegations while recommending punitive measures against Akpoti-Uduaghan.
According to the report, the planned outcome of the investigation includes the indefinite suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for the remainder of her tenure, effectively barring her from Senate activities until 2027.
Support from Key Senators and Alleged Political Maneuvering
The alleged scheme is reportedly being reinforced by statements from certain lawmakers. Senator Ireti Kingibe recently voiced support for the ongoing investigation, while Senator Onyekachi Nweboyin’s remarks on Channels Television are said to be part of efforts to legitimize the anticipated suspension.
A high-ranking source familiar with the situation revealed that the process has already been set in motion.
“The strategy in place is to ensure that Senator Natasha is suspended until the end of her tenure. The ethics committee’s report is already being prepared, and its deliberations will simply serve to formalize the outcome.
“Akpabio will announce that he is stepping aside for the investigation, appear before the panel, and within hours, a report will clear him of any wrongdoing. Meanwhile, Senator Natasha will face an indefinite suspension that will last until 2027,” the source disclosed.
Political Implications and Reactions
If the claims turn out to be true, the move could significantly alter the power dynamics within the Senate. Critics argue that such a suspension would not only silence Akpoti-Uduaghan but also set a precedent for using internal Senate mechanisms to sideline political opponents.
As of now, neither Akpabio nor Akpoti-Uduaghan has issued an official statement regarding the allegations or the purported strategy behind the investigation. However, the unfolding events will be closely watched, as they could have far-reaching implications for Senate proceedings and internal party politics.
