Senate President Godswill Akpabio claims he has never sexually harassed a woman.
Akpabio remarked during plenary on Wednesday, when Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi Central, formally filed a sexual harassment suit against him on the Senate floor.
The former governor of Akwa Ibom said he has received numerous phone calls from Nigerians on the allegation, which he dismissed as false.
“At no time did I ever attempt any sexual harassment on the said distinguished senator Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman for that matter,” Akpabio said.
“I and my siblings were raised very well by my late single mother, who died in 2000, through very difficult times. And I therefore have the highest regard for women.
“I also have four beautiful daughters. At no time would I ever harass any woman and I have never done so.
“Even as a state governor, I won several awards, including the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.”
The senate president thanked his colleagues and other Nigerians for their “calls of support, solidarity and prayers”, adding that he would be vindicated.
“I urge all Nigerians, particularly the media, and members of the social media, to await the court’s decision. And please, do not jump to conclusions on matters of mere allegation.
“The Almighty God will step in to vindicate the just.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio clashed on February 20 over seating arrangements. She was then referred to the Senate Disciplinary Panel for further action.
On February 25, she filed a N100 billion defamation lawsuit against the Senate President.
A federal high court in Abuja has stopped the Senate from holding disciplinary hearings against the Kogi member.
