Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Rejects Six-Month Suspension by Senate

“This Injustice Will Not Stand,” Lawmaker Declares Amid Controversy

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central in Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber, has vehemently rejected her six-month suspension by the Senate. The decision, which followed allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has sparked widespread debate.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, in a bold stance against the ruling, described her suspension as an injustice, vowing that it would not be sustained. “This injustice will not stand!” she declared as she walked out of the Senate chamber following the announcement of her suspension.

Ex-PDP Vice Chairman Nze Ozichukwu Chukwu Criticizes Atiku, Calls For Political Reconciliation

Suspension Sparks Controversy in the Senate

The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions recommended the suspension on Thursday, March 6, 2025. The committee’s report also stipulated that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s salary and security details would be withdrawn for the duration of the suspension.

Her suspension follows a heated confrontation in the Senate, where she protested the reassignment of her seat by Akpabio. She refused to move to the new seat, a decision that further escalated tensions within the chamber.

However, the situation took a more serious turn when Akpoti-Uduaghan, in a television interview, accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment. She alleged that Akpabio had persistently denied her the opportunity to present motions on the Senate floor, despite repeated attempts. According to her, several colleagues advised her to meet with Akpabio privately in his office to address the issue.

During the alleged private meeting, Akpoti-Uduaghan claims Akpabio suggested that she would receive favorable treatment and benefits if she “takes care of him.” The explosive allegations have since fueled intense scrutiny of the Senate leadership.

Political Reactions and Public Response

The suspension has triggered mixed reactions across Nigeria, with some viewing it as a suppression of a female lawmaker’s voice in the male-dominated political landscape. Many Nigerians, including women’s rights groups and political analysts, have called for an independent investigation into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations.

Meanwhile, supporters of the Senate’s decision argue that her accusations were defamatory and meant to tarnish Akpabio’s reputation. Some lawmakers have also defended the suspension, citing the need for discipline within the legislative body.

In response to her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to fight for justice, insisting that she will not back down. Legal experts suggest that she may challenge the Senate’s decision in court, setting the stage for a legal and political showdown in the coming months.

As the controversy unfolds, Nigerians are closely watching to see how the Senate, civil society, and the judiciary will handle the situation. The case has once again highlighted concerns over gender equality, abuse of power, and transparency in Nigeria’s political system.