Tensions escalated outside the National Assembly in Abuja on Wednesday as supporters of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan clashed with rival groups backing Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The confrontation followed serious allegations from Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused the Senate President of sexual harassment.
The protests began earlier in the day when Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters gathered at the entrance to the National Assembly, demanding Akpabio’s resignation and a full investigation into the claims.
As the senator arrived at the scene near the Mopol gate, the crowd erupted into cheers, holding placards with slogans such as “Akpabio must go” and “We stand with Senator Natasha.”
Among the protesters were members of civil society groups who were calling for a thorough probe into the allegations of sexual harassment.
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They expressed strong support for Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging authorities to ensure justice was served.
Meanwhile, tensions mounted as a rival group, identifying themselves as United Women for Good Governance, staged a counter-protest in support of Akpabio.
The group held banners that read “Apologise to the Senate President” and “We say no to Natasha’s serial blackmailing”, among others.
They insisted that Akpabio had always treated Akpoti-Uduaghan as a daughter and a friend, and demanded that she retract her allegations.
In an attempt to disperse the protesters, police operatives used tear gas to break up the demonstration outside the National Assembly Arcade.
The action forced many of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters to retreat, but they regrouped later at the Unity Fountain to continue their protest.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations against Akpabio have taken centre stage in the Nigerian political discourse, with growing calls for a formal investigation. She filed a sexual harassment petition against the Senate President during plenary earlier this week, which has since been met with mixed reactions from lawmakers.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions within the National Assembly, as political factions continue to grapple for influence.
The Senate President, Akpabio, who has not yet publicly commented on the accusations, faces mounting pressure as the controversy unfolds.
As the protests continue, it remains unclear how the political landscape will evolve. What is certain, however, is that the fallout from these allegations will be closely watched by both the Nigerian public and international observers.
