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The Senate is considering a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following a report by the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct citing her for violating Senate rules.
According to the committee’s recommendation, read by its chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen, the suspension is set to take effect from March 6, 2025.
As part of the proposed sanctions:
Her office will be locked, and she will be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises during the suspension.
Her salary and those of her legislative aides will be withdrawn.
She will be prohibited from representing Nigeria in any official capacity as a senator.
She may submit a written apology, which the Senate could review to reconsider the suspension.
The Senate is expected to vote on the recommendations, and if upheld, Senator Natasha will be stripped of all legislative privileges for the duration of the suspension.
Background of the Dispute
The move marks the latest development in an ongoing dispute between Senator Natasha and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The conflict reportedly began over a seating arrangement issue but later escalated after Senator Natasha accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment. However, on Wednesday, the same Ethics and Privileges Committee dismissed her petition alleging abuse of office, sexual harassment, and obstruction of legislative duties, deeming it “dead on arrival.” The petition, which was signed by her constituents, was not entertained by the Senate.
Despite the dismissal, Senator Natasha resubmitted the petition during Thursday’s plenary. When asked whether the matter was in court, she responded in
