The Nigerian Senate is set to vote on a recommendation to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, following findings from the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct.
The committee, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen, found Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan in “total violation” of Senate rules. According to the committee’s report, her suspension will take effect from March 6, 2025, if approved. During this period, her office will be locked, she will be denied access to the National Assembly premises, and both her salary and that of her legislative aides will be withdrawn. Additionally, she will be prohibited from representing Nigeria in any official capacity as a senator.
The committee further suggested that the Kogi Central lawmaker may submit a written apology for the Senate to reconsider her suspension.
This development marks the latest chapter in the ongoing conflict between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The dispute initially arose over a seating arrangement issue but escalated when Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment.
On Wednesday, the Senate committee dismissed her petition alleging abuse of office, sexual harassment, and obstruction of legislative duties by Akpabio, calling it “dead on arrival.” Despite this, she resubmitted the petition during Thursday’s plenary, where she was directed to present it to the Ethics Committee for a four-week investigation.
The Senate is expected to deliberate and vote on the committee’s recommendation in the coming days.
