In UK’s version of Akpabiogate, Navy chief removed from duties, and “steps back” to ensure unhindered investigation of alleged sexual misconduct
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
British Ministry of Defence (MoD) has disclosed that the head of the Royal Navy, Adm Sir Ben Key, has been removed from his duties, and has “stepped back”, to ensure unhindered investigation of his alleged sexual misconduct involving a junior female colleague.
The MoD has not given any further details on the matter he is being investigated for, saying that it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.
According to the BBC, this statement follows reports in the Sun that Key was suspected of having an affair with a more junior female colleague.
This is the United Kingdom version of the sex scandal playing out with a twist in Nigeria where Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment.
The twist is that in March, the Senate at a plenary chaired by Akpabio suspended Natasha for six months without giving her the opportunity to defend her claims, and the Chamber even broke its own rule which stipulates 14 days’ suspension where such a decision is warranted.
Akpabio has boasted he will not step down over the Akpabiogate, and from the President to the judiciary, there is no one to call him to order, in a lawless country with a system broken by impunity carried out from the presidency through to the average citizen on the street.
Earlier this week, the British MoD issued a statement to say that the First Sea Lord had “stepped back due to private reasons”.
Key was due to retire from his position this summer, after serving as the head of the Royal Navy since 2021. This means the search for his successor was under way before an investigation into his conduct was started.
Senior officers can be removed from command and their duties if there is a reasonable suspicion that they are having a sexual relationship with someone more junior in their chain of command.
Such relationships are frowned upon and seen as a potential abuse of power and contrary to the military service code of conduct.
The MoD has not said how long the investigation will take, with details of the allegations likely to remain private, or commented on whether he is likely to return to duty given his imminent retirement.
A defence source said the MoD would only comment further “if appropriate”.
Until a new First Sea Lord is appointed, the Second Sea Lord, Vice Adm Sir Martin Connell, has taken full command of the Royal Navy.
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