Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent complaint at the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Conference in New York continues to spark reactions.
The Kogi lawmaker took her case to the global stage, seeking intervention over what she described as an unfair treatment against her.
Following her statement, the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) acknowledged her concerns and assured that necessary steps would be taken after hearing from all parties involved.
In response to her petition, the Nigerian Senate addressed the IPU through a letter from Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.
During the event, the letter was read aloud by Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, who represented Nigeria in an official capacity.
The letter clarified, “Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended due to misconduct and violations of Senate rules, not because of any allegations related to harassment or assault. The Senate firmly rejects any misinformation suggesting otherwise.”
Honourable Ogbara also called for a thorough investigation into Senator Natasha’s claims against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
She emphasized that due process was followed before the Senate reached its decision to suspend the Kogi lawmaker.
The Senate’s decision last week to suspend Senator Natasha has ignited widespread discussions nationwide.
Her petition accusing Senate President Akpabio of misconduct was dismissed, and shortly after, she was suspended despite submitting a follow-up complaint.
Senator Natasha, however, remains resolute in her stance against what she calls “injustice.” Meanwhile, Akpabio has denied all allegations, asserting that he has never engaged in any form of misconduct against women.
Their ongoing dispute traces back to February 20, 2025, when Senator Natasha’s seat was unexpectedly reassigned during plenary.
This was not their first public disagreement. In July 2024, Akpabio had reprimanded her for what he described as misconduct, advising her to adhere to Senate rules and stating that the chamber was not a place for disorderly conduct. He later apologized for the comment.
As this situation unfolds, many are closely watching the developments and the potential implications for governance and legislative proceedings in Nigeria.
