The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing altercation between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central).
This development comes after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment during an Arise TV interview on Friday.
In a statement signed by NANS National Vice President, Sileola Akinbodunse, the student body urged President Tinubu to settle the rift between the lawmakers before it causes international embarrassment to the country. Akinbodunse emphasized the importance of resolving the issue, stating, “The National Assembly is a key organ of the government which should be occupied by exemplary and forthright representatives of the people.”
Akinbodunse also cautioned that if the allegation of sexual harassment is not properly managed, it could lead to international embarrassment for Nigeria. Although Akpoti-Uduaghan has not provided evidence to support her claims, Akinbodunse believes the matter warrants investigation to ascertain its validity.
The student body leader appealed for peace, urging both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan to put aside their differences. NANS will closely monitor the situation and may take action if the dispute is not resolved, with Akinbodunse warning, “We will not hesitate to march to the National Assembly if the face-off is not resolved.”
In response to the allegations, Akpabio’s media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo, described the claims as “baseless and fictitious lies.”
