The Nigerian Senate has dismissed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, led by Neda Imaseun, explained why the case was thrown out.

During a meeting on March 25, the committee said the case was closed because of procedural errors. Imaseun pointed out that Akpoti-Uduaghan personally signed her petition, which is against Senate rules. Additionally, the petition did not include an address, making it invalid.

Imaseun also responded to claims of bias from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Abiola Akiode. Akiode had earlier asked Imaseun to step down as chairman for fairness. However, Imaseun insisted the case was already in court, so the Senate could not handle it.

According to Senate rules, the committee cannot discuss a matter that is already before a court. Imaseun referred to Order 40 (7) of the Senate rule book, which states that ongoing court cases should not be debated in the Senate.

Since Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team refused to proceed, and Akpabio’s lawyer confirmed the case was in court, the committee officially closed the matter.

Following the Senate’s decision, Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a contempt application against Imaseun and Akpabio over her suspension. The legal battle continues, but for now, the Senate has washed its hands off the case.

Stay tuned for more updates on this issue!