Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, has expressed serious concerns over the sexual harassment allegations made against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by the suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Agbakoba, speaking to reporters in Lagos, stated that the accusations are riddled with contradictions and, as they stand, fail to meet the threshold required to substantiate a claim of sexual harassment anywhere in the world.
While acknowledging the importance of allowing individuals to speak up about harassment, Agbakoba stressed that the principles of justice, including the necessity for evidence and fairness, must be upheld in such matters. As Akpabio’s lawyer, Agbakoba has written a letter to Akpoti-Uduaghan requesting clarification on the contradictions in her allegations, which were widely reported both locally and internationally.
“The widespread coverage has damaged our client’s reputation locally and internationally,” Agbakoba said. “We are happy to allow you a reasonable time to clarify the contradictions, while our client reserves the right to all legal options.”
Agbakoba pointed out a significant contradiction in the timeline of events surrounding the allegation. Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed that Akpabio sexually harassed her on December 8, 2023. However, just a day later, on December 9, 2023, she posted warm, celebratory messages about Akpabio on social media, praising the Senate President and expressing admiration for the birthday event she attended in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
“The juxtaposition of these two events—an alleged traumatic harassment, followed by voluntary public expressions of admiration—requires careful consideration,” Agbakoba said.
Additionally, Agbakoba referred to previous similar allegations involving public figures such as Reno Omokri and an unnamed minister. He emphasized that while each allegation should be evaluated on its own merits, the pattern of actions by Akpoti-Uduaghan required particular scrutiny.
“Sexual harassment is a serious matter that deserves careful and fair consideration,” Agbakoba stated. “We believe that proper institutional processes, rather than media forums, provide the appropriate venue for addressing such serious matters.”
Agbakoba called for a thorough and unbiased investigation of the allegations, underscoring the importance of respecting due process in such sensitive cases.
