A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State, Labaran Maku, has condemned the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as a violation of the rights of the people of Kogi Central. Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, was suspended by the Senate last week over allegations of misconduct.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Maku accused the Senate of acting in bad faith and targeting Akpoti-Uduaghan for her outspokenness. “The suspension of Senator Natasha is not just an attack on her but a violation of the rights of the people of Kogi Central who elected her to represent them. This is undemocratic and unacceptable,” Maku said.
The PDP chieftain called on the Senate to reverse the suspension and allow Akpoti-Uduaghan to resume her duties. “The Senate must respect the will of the people and ensure that their representative is allowed to perform her duties without intimidation or harassment,” he added.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, a vocal critic of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has been at the center of several controversies since her election. Her suspension has sparked outrage among her constituents, who have described it as politically motivated.
“Senator Natasha has been a strong voice for the people of Kogi Central, and her suspension is a clear attempt to silence her. We stand by her and demand her immediate reinstatement,” said a spokesperson for the Kogi Central Youth Forum.
The Senate has defended its decision, stating that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was based on her violation of the Senate’s rules and procedures. However, critics argue that the action is part of a broader pattern of political persecution against opposition figures.
As the controversy continues, the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has become a rallying point for opposition parties and civil society groups, who are calling for greater accountability and respect for democratic principles in Nigeria’s legislative processes.