“Senator Natasha Never Accused Me Of Sexual Harassment” – Says Fayemi, Calls For Responsible Journalism.
The former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has strongly refuted claims that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan ever accused him of sexual harassment.
In a statement released by his media aide, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, Dr Fayemi dismissed a report from The Cable, which alleged that Senator Cyril Fasuyi made such a claim during a Senate plenary session. The statement clarified that Senator Fasuyi’s remarks had been misrepresented and that no such accusation was ever made.
Misrepresentation of Senate Proceedings
The press release emphasised that Senator Fasuyi did not link Dr Fayemi to any allegations of sexual misconduct. Instead, it stated that his comments referred to previous disputes between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and Dr Fayemi regarding policies on the Ajaokuta Steel Company, when Fayemi served as Minister of Mines and Steel Development.
“We wish to categorically state that this report is inaccurate and a misrepresentation of the actual comments made by the Distinguished Senator from Ekiti,” the statement read. “Upon reviewing the proceedings, it is evident that Senator Fasuyi never made such an allegation.”
Upholding Integrity in Public Service
Dr Fayemi reiterated his commitment to integrity in public service, rejecting any attempts to associate his name with “baseless and damaging allegations.” The statement further clarified that his interactions with Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan were strictly professional, with any disagreements stemming from policy differences rather than personal matters.
Additionally, Dr Fayemi denied any intention of submitting a petition to the Senate on the issue, calling for responsible journalism and factual reporting.
“We urge the media to adhere to the highest standards of ethical journalism by verifying facts before publication. Sensationalism and the spread of misleading narratives not only damage reputations but also undermine public trust in the media,” the statement concluded.
The development highlights the ongoing challenges of misinformation in public discourse, with calls for accuracy and accountability in media reporting.
