SENATE SUSPENDS SENATOR NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN FOR SIX MONTHS OVER ALLEGATIONS AGAINST SENATE PRESIDENT
The Nigerian Senate, on Thursday, suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following her allegation of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio.
The suspension was based on a report submitted by Senator Imasuen Neda Bernards, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, citing infractions on the Rules and Orders of the Senate. According to the report, the committee conducted an investigation on Wednesday, where Senator Natasha was given an opportunity to present her side of the story.
During the proceedings, witnesses were called to verify the truth of the allegations. The committee also referenced an incident the previous week, where Senator Natasha allegedly caused chaos by refusing her assigned seat and engaging in a heated confrontation during a Senate session.
Senators Weigh In on the Suspension
- Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Folorunsho (Ondo South) stressed the need to protect the integrity of the Senate, stating, “This institution is bigger than any individual. We must uphold our rules.”
- Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno likened the need for Senate regulations to an orderly society, asserting that “only in the animal kingdom are there no rules and regulations.”
- Senator Bassey Aniekun Etim expressed disappointment over the February 20 incident, recalling “the shouting and screaming” in the chamber.
Calls for Leniency Rejected
Minority Leader Abba Moro pleaded for a reduced three-month suspension, arguing that it would allow the embattled lawmaker to reflect while preserving the dignity of the Senate. However, the plea was not accepted.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged his personal relationship with Senator Natasha’s family, stating: “She is the wife of my close friend and brother. I even slept in their house on the night of their wedding in 2020, and later missed my flight at Obajana Airstrip, spending another night at Dangote Cement.”
Despite the appeal, the Senate upheld a six-month suspension through a voice vote.
Resolution and Consequences
As part of the Senate’s resolutions, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan must:
- Surrender all National Assembly property
- Have her security details withdrawn
- Be denied access to her office, which will be sealed immediately by the Sergeant-at-Arms
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