Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Senate spokesperson, has said the sexual harassment allegation made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio is not before the Senate.
He said this on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Monday.
Adaramodu said the only issue before the Senate is Senator Natasha’s non compliance with the standing orders.
He said the matter is not about Senate President’s misconduct. He said if any other matter arises involving any members of the National Assembly, the Ethics, Privileges and Public Petition Committee will look into it once it is referred.
He said such matters are internal affairs.
Adaramodu said actions or comments made in the hallowed chambers of the Senate are not taken to court. So internal disciplinary procedures will govern such matters brought before the committee.
He said the committee is independent and not managed by the Senate or the Senate President.
He said the committee’s independence ensures it remains impartial and focuses on ethical non compliance.
Recent figures show internal disciplinary cases in legislative bodies are a sensitive issue and robust internal protocols are crucial to maintaining integrity in parliamentary proceedings (see sources page).
So this clarification by Senator Adaramodu means internal disagreements like the one by Senator Natasha is being handled within the proper process. It also shows the Senate is committed to its internal rules and structured approach to ethical issues.