Senators divided over Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension amid due process concerns

Strong divisions have emerged among senators following the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) for six months, with some lawmakers questioning the handling of the process.

Concerns were raised about the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo South), for allegedly rushing the investigation. A ranking senator, speaking anonymously, revealed that the hearing was initially scheduled for March 11 but was unexpectedly moved forward, despite the absence of many senior senators attending a tax reform retreat.

“It was a rushed assignment. Why the hurry? The absence of ranking senators from the process shows we knew where it was heading,” the senator said. He also criticized the decision to proceed despite a court injunction halting the probe, stating, “We are lawmakers, and we must follow due process.”

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on Thursday for allegedly violating the Senate Standing Rules 2023 (as amended). Her suspension followed a protest against Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the reassignment of her seat on February 20, which was deemed disrespectful to the presiding officer and the chamber.

As part of the sanctions, she is barred from all legislative activities for six months, her office will remain locked, and she must return all Senate property. Additionally, her salaries and allowances have been halted, her security details withdrawn, and she is prohibited from entering the National Assembly premises.

While the initial recommendation included stopping salaries for her legislative aides, a motion by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North), seconded by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North), ensured they would continue receiving payments.

Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) had appealed for a reduction of her suspension to three months, but this request was rejected. However, the Senate has offered to reconsider her suspension if she submits a written apology.