A civil and political advocacy group, The Action Collective, has called for the immediate resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio following growing allegations of sexual harassment.
The group argued that his continued leadership is damaging the credibility of the National Assembly and tarnishing Nigeria’s image on the international stage.
In a statement released on Thursday and signed by its National Coordinator, Mr. Teddy Onyejuwe, the group emphasized that the allegations against Senator Akpabio are not isolated.
Referencing past claims, the group recalled that in 2020, Joy Nunieh, former acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), publicly accused Akpabio of attempting to sexually harass her at his Abuja residence, an advance she claimed to have rejected by slapping him.
Although Akpabio denied those allegations and threatened legal action at the time, The Action Collective pointed to a pattern of consistent accusations, arguing that this raises serious concerns about his conduct and suitability for high office.
“In any functional democracy, a public official facing repeated and serious allegations would voluntarily step aside to enable an independent investigation,” the statement read.
“Nigeria cannot afford to project leadership that appears insensitive to issues of gender-based violence and accountability.”
The group also criticized the Senate for what it described as a “culture of impunity” and a lack of urgency in addressing the matter.
While affirming the principle of presumed innocence, The Action Collective stressed that institutional integrity must also be preserved.
“Senator Akpabio’s continued stay in office sends a dangerous message and undermines the dignity of the Senate. It is not only a mockery of justice but an insult to every Nigerian woman,” the group stated.
The group concluded by urging civil society organizations, international human rights bodies, and concerned citizens to join in demanding Akpabio’s resignation, at least until an impartial investigation is conducted.
“If Nigeria must command global respect, we must demonstrate a commitment to moral leadership and accountability,” Onyejuwe said.
