IPU assures Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of fair review on suspension appeal

The President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Tulia Ackson, has assured suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan that necessary steps will be taken after a thorough review of both sides of the issue surrounding her suspension.

Ackson made this statement in a video obtained by Vanguard on Wednesday, following Natasha’s appeal to the IPU and the United Nations (UN) over what she described as an unjust suspension.

During the Women in Parliament session at the IPU meeting, Senator Natasha highlighted what she termed political victimization, stating that she was suspended for submitting a petition on sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Appeal

Addressing the session, Natasha recounted her ordeal:

> “Five days ago, on the 6th of March 2025, I was illegally suspended as a senator because I submitted a petition of sexual harassment against the President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio. I believed that submitting the petition would lead to a fair and transparent investigation, but instead, I was silenced and suspended.

> “My suspension came with severe conditions: my security was withdrawn, my official vehicles and other entitlements were taken away, my salary was cut off, and I was barred from appearing near the National Assembly. For six months, I am not allowed to present myself as a senator, either locally or internationally.”

She further described her suspension as a direct attack on democracy and a deliberate attempt to silence the voices of her constituents and discourage female political participation.

IPU’s Response

In response, IPU President Tulia Ackson acknowledged Natasha’s concerns and assured that the matter would be addressed fairly.

> “We have heard her concerns, and while we understand the gravity of the situation, as an institution, we will listen to the other side before taking necessary steps,” Ackson stated.

She also noted that the Nigerian delegate present at the session was not given a chance to speak due to time constraints but assured that IPU would ensure a balanced review before making any decisions.

With the IPU’s commitment to reviewing the matter, further developments are expected as the global parliamentary body evaluates the circumstances surrounding Natasha’s suspension.