The Nigerian Senate is reportedly facing internal disagreements over the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central). Thirteen senators refused to sign the suspension report, raising concerns about how the case was handled.
One major issue is the speed at which the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo South), processed the matter. Some senators believe the committee rushed the proceedings, especially since many ranking senators were away at a tax reform retreat organized by the Senate Committee on Finance.
A senior senator, who chose to remain anonymous, stated that the hearing was originally set for March 11 but was suddenly rescheduled. “It was a rushed assignment. Why the hurry? Why didn’t the committee wait? The absence of ranking Senators from the process shows we knew where it was heading,” he said.
Another concern raised was the decision to proceed with the investigation despite a court injunction that had ordered a pause. “We are lawmakers, and we must follow due process. This was why thirteen of us refused to participate or sign the report,” the senator added.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on Thursday for allegedly violating the Senate Standing Rules 2023 (as amended). Her suspension followed an incident on February 20, when she protested the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The Senate ruled that her actions brought the presiding officer and the chamber into public disrepute.
As a result of the suspension, she is barred from all legislative activities for six months. Her office will remain locked, and she must return all Senate property. Additionally, her salaries and allowances have been suspended, and her security details will be withdrawn. She is also not allowed to enter the National Assembly premises during this period.
Initially, the committee suggested stopping salaries for her legislative aides, but a motion by former Chief Whip Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North), supported by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North), ensured they would continue receiving payments.
Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) had pleaded for her suspension to be reduced to three months, but his request was rejected.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was the result of a heated exchange in the Senate chamber after discovering her seat had been reassigned and her nameplate removed. Her demand for an explanation led to a tense standoff during plenary.
The Senate has, however, offered to reconsider her suspension if she submits a written apology.
