The Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions has dismissed a sexual harassment petition filed against Akpabio.
Senator Neda Imasuen, the committee chairman, stated that the petition was invalid because it violated Senate Standing Order 40 regulations.
Akpoti-Uduaghan personally signed the petition, contrary to the rule requiring third-party endorsement before submission to the Nigerian Senate.
The committee also ruled that the matter was subjudice since similar issues were already before a court for deliberation.
Despite being scheduled for a probe hearing, Akpoti-Uduaghan failed to appear before the committee, delaying official discussions further.
Senate spokesman Yemi Adaramodu attended the session late, but the absence of Akpoti-Uduaghan prevented meaningful deliberations from proceeding.
Earlier during plenary, Akpoti-Uduaghan presented the petition, but Senate President Godswill Akpabio swiftly denied all allegations made.
Akpabio dismissed the accusations as baseless, emphasizing his lifelong respect for women and commitment to gender inclusivity nationwide.
He cited his upbringing by a single mother and recognition as Nigeria’s most gender-friendly governor as evidence.
