Former presidential candidate and public policy advocate, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has called on the Nigerian Senate to stop all forms of harassment against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central.
Natasha recently returned to the Senate after serving a six-month suspension, and Ezekwesili, in a letter addressed to the Senate leadership and all 107 senators, urged them to restore fairness and respect within the chamber.
According to her, Senator Natasha has become a symbol of courage and resilience in standing up against injustice and the abuse of public power. She noted that the senator’s suspension was unjust and went beyond acceptable disciplinary measures.
On her social media platform, Ezekwesili wrote:
“It’s time for the Senate to do the right thing — end every form of harassment and targeting against Senator Natasha. Her suspension was viewed by many Nigerians as unfair and an attempt to silence a woman who speaks boldly and stands for what she believes in.
“Her reinstatement offers the Senate an opportunity to correct that wrong and prove its commitment to fairness. There should be no more silent punishments, intimidation, or attempts to frustrate her. Restore her full rights, privileges, and duties as a senator — including her office, staff, and committee roles.”
Ezekwesili urged the Senate to show maturity and integrity in handling internal matters, reminding lawmakers that the people of Kogi Central chose Natasha to represent them, and continued hostility toward her disrespects their mandate.
She emphasized that the issue goes beyond Natasha alone, pointing out that it reflects the kind of democracy Nigeria wants to build — one where truth and justice are not punished and where women can lead without fear or discrimination.
“The Senate must remember that true power lies not in intimidation but in fairness, transparency, and accountability,” Ezekwesili added.
She concluded by reminding senators that their response to Natasha’s case would define how Nigerians perceive the 10th Senate — whether as a body driven by justice or one fueled by personal interests.
