Senator for Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio for sexual harassment.
She submitted the petition on Wednesday under Order 40 of the Senate Rules.
She had earlier raised the allegations on Arise TV.
This marks a new level in her fight against what she considers misconduct.
Senate President Akpabio told her to go ahead. He didn’t comment further on the matter during the plenary.
After submission, the petition was sent to Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Code of Conduct for further review.
During plenary earlier in the day, Akpabio dismissed the allegations. He said he has never harassed any woman and that his upbringing by his late single mother taught him to respect women.
He also mentioned his award as the most gender friendly governor in Nigeria as evidence of his character.
Since February 25, Akpabio has been receiving calls on the matter which has been trending on social media.
He urged Nigerians not to jump to conclusions and allow the process to run its course.
This is happening at a time when sexual harassment in public office is under spotlight both locally and internationally.
For instance, research shows that transparent and accountable process is key to handling such allegations in political institution.
Recent studies have shown that clear process and active oversight can boost public trust in political process.
The petition is not only a personal issue between the senator and the Senate President but also a broader issue of accountability in Nigerian politics.
By taking her matter to a formal setting, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is part of the conversation on ethics in governance.