Natasha denies apologising over Akpabiogate, urges public to ignore misinformation campaign against her
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) has denied reports that she apologised to the Senate over her suspension that was prompted by her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
She described the reports as “false and misleading,” in a statement in which she insisted that she stands by her position.
“The reports suggesting that I have apologised to the Senate and retracted my position are completely untrue. I stand firmly by my words and actions and have not issued any apology to the Senate or anyone regarding this matter,” she said.
Natasha criticised those spreading the false reports, accusing them of trying to twist the truth and mislead the public.
“I urge the public to disregard these rumours and publications as they do not represent my position. My commitment remains to truth, justice, and the people I represent.
“This is not just about me; it is about the integrity of our democracy. I will not be intimidated or forced into submission through false narratives.”
She counselled Nigerians to be careful of misinformation, stressing that any official statement from her would come only from her verified channels.
“I appreciate the support and solidarity of my people. Rest assured, I will continue to fight for what is right and just.”
However, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed receipt of the petition from Natasha’s constituents seeking her recall from the Senate.
INEC official Rose Oriaran-Anthony on Monday received the petition, which former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili accused Akpabio of orchestrating through bribery.
Other individuals and groups, including rights activists and Amnesty International, have also demanded a fair and transparent investigation of Natasha’s allegations instead of Senators sweeping them under the carpet and vilifying her.
Ezekwesili reiterated that Senators brought shame upon Nigeria and Nigerians by their refusal to provide an opportunity for an independent investigation into embarrassing Akpabiogate.
She accused the Senate and Akpabio of embarking on a smear campaign against Natasha.
“Here’s @TheEconomist in yet another post on the shame brought upon Nigeria and Nigerians by @Senator_Akpabio @NGRSenate by their brazen refusal to provide an opportunity for an independent investigation and open/transparent public hearing by a Specially Constituted Committee of the Nigerian Senate,” Ezekwesili wrote on X.
“No one wants another Kangaroo process of injustice like they did to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan @NatashaAkpoti with their so-called ‘Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions’ ‘investigation’ when she was referred to that tainted committee following the heated argument between her and the Senate President over seating arrangements.
“The committee recommended a six-month suspension and other egregious punishment, which were in violation of the Constitution and yet were approved by the Senate.
“Rather than reverse that illegality and focus on her petition for sexual harassment, the Senate and Senate President have instead embarked on a smear campaign against Senator @NatashaAkpoti.
“They are currently conspiring to execute a sham Recall by bribing her constituents who thankfully have largely rejected their offer of filthy lucre.
“What a bunch of nation-destroyers we have as ‘Lawmakers’. They behave with impunity because [they] have taken a chokehold on our democracy.
“Well, it is time for all reasonable Citizens to stand up to them and all the way before they totally destroy whatever is left of Nigeria.”
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