Civil Society groups demand accountability from Senators Akpabio and Imasuen over allegations

Several civil society organizations have raised serious concerns over allegations of misconduct against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Neda Bernards Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics.

These allegations, formally submitted in a petition to the Legal Practitioners’ Disciplinary Committee (LPDC), call into question the senators’ adherence to legal and ethical standards.

The groups, including Citizens Gavel Foundation for Social Justice, EiE Nigeria, and Global Rights Advocates, are urging the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Chief Justice of Nigeria, and other relevant authorities to investigate the claims and ensure accountability.

Allegations Against Senator Godswill Akpabio

• In February 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment in a petition to the Senate. Despite this, he has refused to step aside for an impartial investigation.
• This is not the first time Akpabio has faced such accusations. In 2020, Joy Nunieh, a former acting managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), also accused him of sexual harassment.
• He is also accused of orchestrating the six-month suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, despite judicial rulings invalidating similar suspensions.

Allegations Against Senator Neda Bernards Imasuen

• In May 2010, Senator Imasuen was permanently disbarred in New York for fraud and professional misconduct after allegedly taking large fees from a client without providing legal services.
• Despite this, he currently chairs the Senate Committee on Ethics.
• He played a key role in recommending Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, raising concerns about his commitment to ethical governance.

Impact on Nigeria’s Democracy

The civil society groups argue that failure to hold these senators accountable damages public trust in Nigeria’s institutions and tarnishes the country’s global reputation. They stress that allowing impunity among political leaders weakens democracy and the rule of law.

Key Demands

The organizations are calling for urgent action, including:

1. NBA Investigation: The Nigerian Bar Association should investigate and consider referring both senators to the LPDC for disciplinary measures.
2. LPDC Probe: A thorough, independent inquiry into the allegations should be conducted, with appropriate sanctions applied if necessary.
3. Senate Review: The National Assembly must reassess the handling of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s case to ensure legal compliance.
4. Public Accountability: Nigerian citizens are urged to demand justice and reject impunity in governance.

The groups emphasize that democracy must not be compromised by individuals who disregard their professional and constitutional responsibilities. They call on authorities to act swiftly to restore confidence in the legal and political system.