Senator Natasha Condemns Suspension, Declares It Unsustainable

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has vehemently rejected her suspension from the Senate, labeling it an “unsustainable injustice” that she vows to challenge.
The lawmaker, representing Kogi Central under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was handed a six-month suspension on Thursday after the Senate’s disciplinary committee deemed her guilty of violating parliamentary regulations. Her suspension came in the aftermath of her accusations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Expressing her outrage, Akpoti-Uduaghan remained defiant, asserting, “This injustice will not prevail.” She reaffirmed her commitment to pursuing justice despite the punitive action against her.
Her suspension was formally recommended by the Senate’s disciplinary committee, which presented its findings to lawmakers during Thursday’s plenary session. The committee investigated allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse of office against Akpabio but ultimately ruled that Akpoti-Uduaghan had breached Senate protocols, warranting a six-month suspension.
Although some senators lobbied for a reduction in the duration of her suspension, the majority of the chamber voted in favor of enforcing the full term. Presiding over the session, Akpabio read out the Senate’s resolution, stating that the suspension could be reconsidered or reduced if Akpoti-Uduaghan submits a “formal written apology” to the legislative body.
Additionally, the committee had recommended the cessation of her salary and that of her aides for the suspension period. However, this particular sanction was overruled following an appeal by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who argued, “Natasha’s aides are distinct from Natasha. It would be unjust to deprive them of their legitimate allowances.”
The controversy surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan began on February 20, 2025, when she clashed with Akpabio after her assigned seat was changed. The disagreement escalated into a heated exchange on the Senate floor, ultimately culminating in her allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio—claims he has since denied.
She formally submitted a petition to the Senate on Thursday, but it was swiftly dismissed, setting the stage for her eventual suspension the following day.