Six Months Suspension for Senator Natasha: Drama Kicks

Six Months Suspension for Senator Natasha

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has been suspended from the Nigerian Senate for six months following allegations of misconduct. The suspension stems from a dispute over a seating arrangement during a plenary session on February 20, 2025, where Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment—a claim Akpabio has denied.

The Senate’s Ethics Committee investigated the allegations and found procedural violations in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition, leading to its dismissal. Consequently, the Senate imposed a six-month suspension, during which Akpoti-Uduaghan will forfeit her salary, allowances, and security details, and will be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises. The suspension may be lifted or reduced if she submits a written apology.

Six Months Suspension for Senator Natasha

In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan has expressed intentions to challenge the suspension in court, criticizing the Senate’s actions as unjust. The Nigerian Bar Association and other groups have condemned the Senate’s handling of the case, alleging bias and procedural irregularities.

The controversy has drawn attention to the low representation of women in Nigeria’s parliament and has sparked discussions about gender bias and the treatment of female lawmakers.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Suspended Amidst Controversy