by Godwin Orozo Abuja-
The Nigerian Senate has suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months without pay following her allegation of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The decision, reached on Thursday, was based on a report submitted by Senator Imasuen Neda Bernards, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. The report cited multiple violations of Senate rules, leading to the recommendation for her suspension.
“The committee carried out a thorough investigation and gave the senator an opportunity to present her side of the story,” Senator Neda stated. He added that testimonies were taken to verify the claims and assess any breaches of Senate conduct.
Recounting a prior incident in the Senate chamber, he said, “On Wednesday last week, she disrupted proceedings by refusing her designated seat and engaging in a heated exchange, causing disorder.”
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Folorunsho emphasized the need to uphold Senate regulations. “This institution is bigger than any individual. If we do not enforce our own rules, no one else will do it for us,” he remarked.
Senator Mohammed Monguno reinforced this stance, saying, “Only in the animal kingdom are there no rules. The Senate must maintain its integrity at all costs.”
Senator Bassey Aniekun Etim expressed disappointment over the disruption, stating, “I watched the shouting and screaming on February 20, and I fully support the report’s findings.”
However, Minority Leader Abba Moro appealed for leniency, proposing a three-month suspension instead. “This is not just about one senator; Nigerians are watching us as statesmen. We must ensure fairness,” he urged.
Despite the appeals, the Senate upheld the six-month suspension. Senate President Akpabio, addressing the chamber, remarked, “The senator in question is the wife of my close friend. I even stayed at their house during their wedding in 2020.”
Following the resolution, Senator Natasha is required to surrender all National Assembly property, her security detail will be withdrawn, and her office will be sealed by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
