The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct has recommended a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing total violation of Senate rules. The recommendation, read by Committee Chairman Senator Neda Imasuen, suggests that Senator Natasha’s suspension will take effect from March 6, 2025.
Key Recommendations:
- Six-Month Suspension: Senator Natasha will be suspended from all legislative activities for six months.
- Office Lockdown: Her office will be locked, and she will be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises during the suspension period.
- Salary Withdrawal: Her salaries and those of her legislative aides will be withdrawn.
- Prohibition from Official Representation: She will be prohibited from representing Nigeria in any official capacity as one of the country’s senators during the suspension period.
- Written Apology: Senator Natasha may submit a written apology for the Senate to review her suspension.
The Senate is expected to vote on the recommendation, which, if upheld, would effectively strip Senator Natasha of all legislative privileges for the duration of her suspension. This development is the latest in the dispute between Senator Natasha and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which started over a seating arrangement issue and escalated into claims of sexual harassment.