The Nigerian Senate has defended its decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, stating that her suspension was not related to allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Instead, the Senate attributed her suspension to gross misconduct and unruly behavior.
Speaking before the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on Wednesday, the Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Kafilat Ogbara, presented the Senate’s position. Ogbara emphasized that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was a result of her persistent misconduct and disregard for the Senate’s Standing Orders.
The Senate accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of violating Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the Senate rules, which led to her suspension. Specifically, the Senate cited instances of misconduct, including:
- – Refusing to sit in her assigned seat during plenary on February 25, 2025
- – Engaging in unruly and disruptive behavior
- – Making abusive and disrespectful remarks against the leadership of the Senate
- – Defying and refusing to comply with the summons of the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges
The IPU had requested the Senate to provide clarification on Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension. In response, Ogbara presented a position paper from the Senate, which reiterated that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was not related to allegations of sexual harassment.
*Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Response*
Akpoti-Uduaghan had previously presented her case at a United Nations forum, calling for international intervention to hold the Nigerian Senate accountable. The senator representing Kogi Central alleged that her suspension was a result of her accusations against Akpabio.
The suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked debate and reactions from various stakeholders. While some have criticized the Senate’s decision, others have defended the move as necessary to maintain order and uphold the integrity of the legislative body.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Senate has clarified that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was due to gross misconduct and not related to allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the Nigerian Senate and the country’s political landscape.