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Human rights and constitutional lawyer, Anthony Agbazuere, has emphasised the need to distinguish between misconduct and sexual harassment, stating that they are separate issues that should not be conflated, when considering the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Speaking during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Friday regarding the controversy surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension from the Nigerian Senate, Agbazuere argued that while Akpoti-Uduaghan has the right to protest if she was indeed sexually harassed, the Senate’s recent deliberation focused strictly on misconduct.
“The point to take home is that misconduct and the issue of sexual harassment are different, and they should be treated distinctly. What was treated yesterday was misconduct,” Agbazuere said.
He noted that the senator had made mistakes in handling her claims, particularly in how she presented her petition, which had to be corrected.
Agbazuere also questioned the timing of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations, suggesting that her prior silence and continued engagement with the accused could be perceived as an attempt at blackmail.
“She kept quiet for too long, and having done so while still going close to the same person without complaining until she committed this misconduct, it could still be seen as blackmail,” he explained.
He advised that individuals must handle their cases properly, ensuring that in seeking justice, they do not inadvertently create further issues for themselves.
“Even when you think you have a good case, handle it well so that you don’t also create a wrong for yourself when trying to achieve a right,” he added.
The Nigerian Senate suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, starting March 6, 2025, following an investigation by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct. The committee, led by Senator Neda Imasuen, found her guilty of violating Senate rules.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, had been involved in a dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over a seating arrangement clash. The matter escalated when she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office, claims that fueled public debate.
Following her accusations, the Senate Committee launched an investigation, concluding that she had engaged in misconduct. While details of her specific violations were not disclosed, political analysts suggest the suspension is linked to her ongoing rift with Akpabio.
Melissa Enoch
The post Misconduct And Sexual Harassment Are Different—Senate Addressed Misconduct In Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Case, Says Lawyer Agbazuere appeared first on Arise News.
