Supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio gathered at the National Assembly on Wednesday, leading to a tense standoff. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters protested at the parliament entrance, demanding Akpabio’s resignation over allegations of sexual harassment against her.

As Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived, her supporters cheered and displayed placards reading “Akpabio must go” and “We stand with Senator Natasha.” They called for a thorough investigation into her claims.

In response, a rival group of pro-Akpabio demonstrators staged a counter-protest, holding signs that urged an apology from Akpoti-Uduaghan and accused her of “serial blackmailing.” They claimed that Akpabio had treated her like a daughter.

Earlier, police intervened, using tear gas to disperse Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters, who had begun gathering around 8 a.m. After being forced to retreat, they regrouped at the Unity Fountain to continue their protest.