The Nigerian Senate, on Thursday, suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following allegations of misconduct, including a sexual harassment claim against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The suspension was based on a report submitted by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which cited multiple violations of the Senate’s Rules and Orders.
The Committee Chairman, Senator Imasuen Neda Bernards (Edo South), detailed the investigative process during the plenary session. He stated that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was given the opportunity to defend herself during the committee’s hearing on Wednesday. The investigation was initiated after a petition was referred to the committee, and testimonies were taken to ascertain the validity of the allegations.
Senator Neda also recalled an incident on Wednesday last week, where Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly caused chaos during a Senate session by refusing her assigned seat and engaging in a shouting match. This behavior was said to contravene the Senate’s Rules and Orders. Senator Raphael Adeyemi Adaramodu, who appeared before the committee, corroborated the incident.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South) emphasized the need to protect the integrity of the Senate as an institution. He commended the committee for its thorough report and stressed the importance of adhering to the Senate’s rules.
Similarly, the Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Mohammed Monguno, reiterated that rules and regulations are essential for maintaining order, stating, “It is only in the animal kingdom that there are no rules and regulations.” He emphasized that the Senate, as an institution, must outlive individuals, and its rules must be upheld.
Senator Bassey Aniekun Etim expressed disappointment over the incident, stating that he witnessed the “shouting and screaming” on February 20, 2025, and supported the committee’s findings.
In a plea for leniency, the Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, recommended a reduced suspension of three months, arguing that it would be sufficient for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to reflect on her actions. He also urged the Senate to consider its image as Nigerians are closely watching its decisions.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his remarks, revealed his personal connection to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing her as the wife of a close friend. He recounted staying at their home during her wedding in 2020 and again at Dangote Cement’s Obajana Airstrip when he missed his flight. Despite this personal relationship, Akpabio upheld the committee’s recommendation after a voice vote.
As part of the suspension, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is required to surrender all National Assembly properties, and her security details will be withdrawn. Additionally, her office will be sealed by the Sergeant-at-Arms to deny her access during the suspension period.
DAILY MENTOR reports that this decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising the Senate for upholding its rules and others questioning the severity of the punishment. The suspension underscores the ongoing tension and scrutiny within the Nigerian legislative body.