The Nigerian Senate, on Thursday, suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, for a period of six months due to misconduct. The decision was based on findings by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which accused her of failing to cooperate with the committee’s proceedings.
The controversy began when Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of obstructing her legislative motions, particularly those related to the Ajaokuta Steel Company. She also alleged that Akpabio made inappropriate remarks about her, referring to her as a “nightclub girl” during a Senate session. Akpabio later apologized for the comment but denied any wrongdoing beyond that.
During Thursday’s plenary session, Senator Neda Imasuen, the chairman of the committee, presented the panel’s report. He stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan was found guilty of misconduct because she refused to appear before the committee to defend herself. Based on this, the committee recommended her suspension, along with the withdrawal of her salary and security details for the duration of the six-month period.
The Senate also suggested that she issue a formal apology for actions they considered disrespectful to the institution. As a result of the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan will be barred from entering the National Assembly premises, and her office will remain locked throughout the suspension.
During the debate on the committee’s recommendations, Senator Abba Moro appealed for leniency, urging the Senate to consider reducing the suspension period to three months. He stated, “We plead that while implementing these recommendations, which are likely to be approved by the Senate, the six-month suspension for Senator Natasha is reduced to three months, if convenient for the Senate and Mr. President. Three months is sufficient for some level of restitution.”
