Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, the husband of Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has publicly defended his wife following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a recent interview on Arise TV, Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed that Akpabio made inappropriate advances toward her at his office and residence in Akwa Ibom State. The allegations come after a prior dispute between the two lawmakers over seating arrangements in the Senate.
In a statement released on Saturday, Uduaghan, who holds the title of Alema of Warri Kingdom, revealed that his wife had shared details of her troubling interactions with the Senate President. He disclosed that he had personally met with Akpabio to address the issue, urging him to treat his wife with the respect she deserves and to honor their mutual friendship.
“We reached an understanding and agreed to resolve the matter amicably,” Uduaghan stated. “However, despite this agreement, my wife continues to express concerns about the harassment she has endured from the Senate President.”
Uduaghan expressed unwavering support for his wife, emphasizing the strength of their marriage, which he described as being built on love, compassion, and mutual respect. “I have complete faith in my wife’s loyalty and am fully committed to our marriage. She is the greatest joy of my life, and I would never trade her for anything,” he said.
He concluded by calling on the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Senate President to treat his wife with the dignity and respect she deserves, while allowing the relevant authorities and courts to address the underlying issues.
The statement has further intensified the controversy surrounding the allegations, drawing attention to the ongoing tensions within the Senate.