The Senate has, again, wielded the big stick, suspending one of its own, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a PDP Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, who is embroiled in a sexual harassment controversy with Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
As she walked out of the chamber after the suspension, she was overheard declaring: “this injustice can not be sustained”.
Her suspension followed the recommendations of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions on the same day she re-submitted her petition on the harassment allegations.
The petition was thrown out on Wednesday because she was it’s signatory. Senators, going by the rules of the Upper Legistive House, are not allowed to sign petitions to the chamber. Thursday’s copy was signed by some of her constituents.
On Wednesday, Akpabio had denied Natasha’s allegations for the first time on the floor of the Senate.
His words: “While I am aware that the matters are in court, however, I would like to state clearly that at no time did I ever attempt any sexual harassment on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman, for that matter….
“I and my siblings were raised very well by my late single mother. She died in the year 2000, through very difficult times, and I therefore have the highest regards for women. Even at their minds, I sit right here today….
“I also wish to state that I also have four beautiful daughters, so at no time will I ever harass any woman, and I’ve never done so.”
He told his fellow lawmakers that he had received numerous awards for gender inclusivity, including the title of “Most Gender-Friendly Governor” during his tenure as Akwa Ibom State Governor from 2007 to 2015.
“In addition, even as a state governor, I was awarded various awards. One of them was the one you wish to know, the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria. I served between 2007 and 2015, to God be the glory.”
“In conclusion, I urge all Nigerians, particularly the media and then, of course, the members of the social media, to await the court’s decision, and please do not jump to conclusions on matters of mere allegations.
“I want to thank you for listening to me, and thank my colleagues, because some of the phone calls of support, solidarity, and prayers that the almighty God will step in to vindicate the just. So now, let us get on with the business of the day.”
On Thursday, Senator Natasha was suspended for a period of six (6) on Thursday after the recommendations of the committee were put to a voice vote by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
She was also asked not to be seen near the National Assembly (NASS); that her office be locked up for the duration of her suspension, and that she hands over all Senate’s properties in possession to the Clerk of the NASS.
Presenting the recommendation, Chairman of the Committee, Senator Neda Imaseun said:
“That the Senate do suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six (6) for her total violation of the Senate standing rules 2023 as amended, for bringing the presiding officer and the Senate in general to public opprobrium.
“That for the Senate to consider lifting the suspension, or to reduce the tenor of suspension, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan shall submit a written apology to the Senate before the reconsideration by the Senate.
“That the Senate do suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan with effect from 6th March 2025 from all legislative activities forthwith.
“That her office be locked up for the duration of her suspension and handover all Senate’s properties in possession to the Clerk of the National Assembly.
“That for the duration of her suspension, she cannot come close, come or be seen within the vicinity of the National Assembly, including her staff.
“That her salaries and allowances, including those of her legislative aides, be suspended and withdrawal of all security details for the duration of her suspension.
“That for the period of her suspension, she be barred from representing herself to the public, locally and internationally, as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“In conclusion, Mr President and my most distinguished and respected colleagues, on behalf of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, we appreciate the Senate President, distinguished colleagues for the opportunity granted us to serve Nigerians through the Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions.
“Respectfully submitted for consideration and approval”.
After submitting the recommendations, Senator Akpabio put the prayers into voice vote and they were all granted by the Senate, except that her legislative aides will continue to receive their salaries and allowances for the six-month period.
With Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan now suspended, the battle may now shift to the court of law and public opinion, even as it is not clear if the Senate Committee on Ethics and Public Petitions will begin sitting on the petition of her constituents.
