The Senate on Thursday suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, for a period of six months due to misconduct.
The decision followed the recommendations of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which found her guilty of misconduct and failure to appear before the committee.
The suspension relates to allegations of sexual harassment that Akpoti-Uduaghan had levelled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She accused Akpabio of obstructing her legislative motions, particularly those concerning the Ajaokuta Steel Company, and claimed that he referred to her as a “nightclub girl” during a Senate session—an offensive remark for which he later apologised.
Presenting the committee’s report during Thursday’s plenary, Chairman Senator Neda Imasuen stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan was found guilty of all allegations due to her non-compliance with the committee’s proceedings.
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The committee also recommended that her salary and security details be suspended for the duration of her suspension.
In addition to the suspension, the committee advised that Akpoti-Uduaghan issue a formal apology to the Senate for her actions, which were deemed disrespectful to the institution.
The Senate’s decision marks a significant development in the ongoing controversy surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations against the Senate President.
Akpabio has consistently denied any misconduct, emphasising his respect for women and rejecting the claims as unfounded.
As a result of the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan will be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises, and her office will remain locked for the entire six-month period.
During the deliberation on the committee’s recommendation, Senator Abba Moro called for leniency, suggesting a reduction in the recommended six-month suspension.
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 be reduced to three months, if convenient for the Senate and Mr. President. Three months would be sufficient for some level of restitution.”
