Akpabio-Natasha Clash Sparks Protests and Counter-Protests at National Assembly

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central on Wednesday stormed the National Assembly amid protests by her supporters demanding Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s resignation, along with a counter-protest by pro-Akpabio demonstrators.

Senator Natasha had recently accused Akpabio of sexually harassing her during a visit to his residence in December 2023 and again when she sought answers about her Ajaokuta Steel motion. She had also previously clashed with the Senate President over her seating arrangement, claiming she was deliberately isolated from other senators.

As Natasha arrived at the protest scene near the Mopol gate, her supporters cheered, waving placards with messages like“Akpabio must go” and “We stand with Senator Natasha.” The protesters, which included members of civil society groups, called for a thorough investigation into her allegations.

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Meanwhile, pro-Akpabio demonstrators staged a counter-protest, displaying banners with messages such as “We say no to Natasha’s serial blackmailing” and “Akpabio treated Natasha as a daughter and friend.”

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Earlier, security personnel, some not in uniform, had dispersed the initial wave of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters with tear gas at the National Assembly Arcade, opposite Eagle Square.

Despite the initial disruption, the protesters, who had started gathering around 9 a.m., regrouped at a nearby location to continue their demonstration.