Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Wednesday joined her supporters in a protest at the National Assembly, demanding the resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio over allegations of sexual harassment.

The demonstration, held near the Mopol Gate, saw protesters holding placards with messages such as “Akpabio must go” and “We stand with Senator Natasha.” Many of the demonstrators, including members of civil society groups, called for a thorough investigation into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims.

The senator, who represents Kogi Central, recently accused Akpabio of sexually harassing her on two occasions—first in December 2023 during a visit to his residence and later when she sought updates on her Ajaokuta Steel motion. She also alleged that she was deliberately isolated from her colleagues in the Senate.

In response, a rival group of protesters gathered in support of Akpabio, dismissing the allegations as false and politically motivated. They carried banners with messages such as “We say no to Natasha’s serial blackmailing” and “Akpabio treated Natasha as a daughter and friend.”

Earlier in the day, GWG.ng reported that security operatives, including some in plain clothes, used tear gas to disperse Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters near the National Assembly Arcade, close to Eagle Square. Despite the crackdown, the protesters regrouped at another location to continue their demonstration.

As the controversy intensifies, calls for an independent investigation into the allegations continue to grow, while the Senate leadership has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.