Senate President Godswill Akpabio has rejected calls from civil society groups and critics urging him to step down over allegations of sexual harassment and electoral misconduct, declaring, “I’m not one of those people who will step down over false allegations.”
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has dismissed growing calls for his resignation, insisting he will not bow to pressure over what he described as baseless accusations. Akpabio is facing allegations of sexual harassment by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and claims of electoral malpractice. Responding Thursday to Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele’s remarks urging lawmakers to stay focused, Akpabio stated: “Who told you I was going to step down?… I’m not one of those people who will step down over false allegations.”
Akpabio also criticized Defence Minister Muhammed Badaru for reportedly downplaying the Senate’s planned national security summit. “If Defence has any issue… it should get in touch with the Senate President or Senate Leaders. Not speak in the open,” he said.
Bamidele defended the Senate’s integrity, warning against false narratives and affirming its commitment to reforms. “The Senate is an institution and is bigger than any individual,” he said, urging focus on security and legislative responsibilities.