Senate denies suspending Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over sexual harassment allegations

The Nigerian Senate has refuted claims that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended for accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment.

Instead, the upper chamber clarified that her suspension was due to violations of the Senate Standing Orders and her alleged unparliamentary conduct.

In a statement released on Saturday, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described reports suggesting otherwise as misinformation. He explained that Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for six months following recommendations from the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges. The committee found her guilty of disobeying Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended) and engaging in disruptive behavior during plenary sessions.

According to the statement, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s offenses included refusing to sit in her assigned seat during plenary on February 25, 2025, speaking without being recognized by the presiding officer, and making remarks deemed disrespectful to Senate leadership. The Senate also stated that if she submits a written apology, her suspension could be lifted before the six-month period ends.

Bamidele further clarified that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition on sexual harassment did not follow proper procedures, which was why it was not considered. He insisted that the disciplinary action against her was purely based on her repeated violation of Senate rules.

Meanwhile, the Advocacy for Integrity and Rule of Law (AIRL) has warned that the Senate risks losing public trust if it does not handle the issue carefully. The group’s chairman, Mohammed Ibrahim Gamawa, urged the Senate to avoid actions that could deprive Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents of representation.

He described the ongoing dispute between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan as a “show of shame” that could damage the Senate’s reputation and Nigeria’s democracy.