A Dramatic Turn in the Senate
The Nigerian Senate has suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months without pay following her sexual harassment allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The decision, made on March 6, 2025, comes after a thorough investigation by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which found her in violation of the Senate’s Rules and Orders.
The suspension has sparked widespread debate, with some senators calling for leniency while others emphasize the need to uphold the institution’s integrity.
The Committee’s Findings
The suspension was based on a report submitted by Senator Imasuen Neda Bernards, Chairman of the Ethics Committee. The committee investigated the allegations and provided Natasha with an opportunity to present her side of the story.
Key findings from the investigation include:
Natasha caused a “chaos and rowdy session” on February 20, 2025, by refusing her assigned seat and engaging in a shouting match.
Her actions were deemed in violation of the Senate’s Rules and Orders.
Testimonies from other senators, including Raphael Adeyemi Adaramodu, supported the committee’s conclusions.
Senators’ Reactions: A Divided Chamber
The decision to suspend Natasha sparked heated debates among senators:
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim emphasized the importance of protecting the Senate as an institution, stating, “This institution is not about an individual. We have rules to regulate our activities.”
Senator Bassey Aniekun Etim expressed disappointment over Natasha’s conduct during the February 20 session.
Minority Leader Abba Moro pleaded for leniency, recommending a three-month suspension instead of six. He argued that Nigerians are watching and that the Senate should act as statesmen.
Despite these appeals, the Senate upheld the six-month suspension after a voice vote.
Senate President Akpabio’s Remarks
Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed regret over the situation, noting his personal relationship with Natasha’s husband.
“The Senator we are talking about is the wife of my very close friend and brother. On the day of her marriage, I slept in their house in the year 2020, and when I was to leave, I missed my flight at Obajana Airstrip and I slept again at Dangote Cement,” Akpabio said.
Consequences of the Suspension
As part of the suspension, Natasha will:
Surrender all National Assembly properties.
Have her security details withdrawn.
Lose access to her office, which will be sealed by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
A Controversial Decision
The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s political landscape. While some view it as a necessary step to uphold the Senate’s integrity, others see it as a harsh punishment that could discourage whistleblowers from speaking out against misconduct.
As the six-month suspension takes effect, the Senate faces the challenge of balancing accountability with fairness, ensuring that its actions reflect the values of justice and transparency.
