However, their demonstration was cut short as security operatives from the Nigeria Police Force intervened, deploying tear gas to disperse the crowd.
A coalition of civil society organisations staged a protest at the national assembly gate on Wednesday, calling for Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step down to allow for an independent investigation into allegations made by Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The demonstrators arrived as early as 8 a.m., just before the senate’s plenary session commenced, holding banners with bold messages such as “Akpabio Must Go” and “Protect Women’s Rights.”
However, their demonstration was cut short as security operatives from the Nigeria Police Force intervened, deploying tear gas to disperse the crowd. Authorities cited concerns over a possible disruption of public order. Undeterred, the protesters regrouped at Unity Fountain in Abuja to continue their agitation.
READ ALSO: Natasha accuses Akpabio of sexual harassment
The protest follows heightened tensions stemming from a heated senate chamber confrontation on February 20, 2025, between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio over seating arrangements. That dispute resulted in her referral to the senate’s ethics committee.
Further intensifying the controversy, Akpoti-Uduaghan recently accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, alleging that she was being victimised for rejecting his advances. Her claims, made public last Friday, have sparked national debate and amplified demands for accountability.
