By Abiola Olawale
The Nigerian Senate has suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District of Kogi State at the Senate, for six months without pay, following allegations of sexual harassment levelled against the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
The suspension, effective immediately as of March 6, 2025, was announced during Thursday’s plenary session after a report from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions was adopted by the Committee of the Whole.
The decision comes after weeks of escalating tension between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership, sparked by her public accusation that Akpabio had sexually harassed her and obstructed her legislative duties.
The controversy began in February when the senator claimed that Akpabio made inappropriate advances toward her during a visit to his residence in Akwa Ibom in December 2023, allegations that Akpabio has vehemently denied.
She further alleged that her motions, particularly those concerning the Ajaokuta Steel Company, were deliberately blocked as retaliation for rejecting Akpabio’s advances.
The Senate Committee, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen of Edo South, conducted an investigation into the matter on Wednesday, March 5.
According to the committee’s findings, Akpoti-Uduaghan was allowed to defend her claims but was found to have violated Senate Standing Rules by bringing the institution into disrepute.
The committee recommended a six-month suspension, the withdrawal of her salaries and allowances, and the immediate sealing of her office.
Presenting the report, Senator Imasuen stated: “The investigation revealed a pattern of behaviour inconsistent with the Senate’s rules and orders. Testimonies were taken to ascertain the truth, and the committee concluded that the allegations and subsequent actions by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan warranted disciplinary measures.”
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Folorunsho of Ondo South supported the suspension, emphasizing the need to protect the Senate’s integrity. “This institution is bigger than any individual. We must uphold our rules at all costs,” he remarked.
The suspension terms are stringent as Akpoti-Uduaghan must surrender all Senate properties in her possession, her security details have been withdrawn, and she is required to issue a formal written apology to the Senate before any reconsideration of her suspension can occur.
The Senate also resolved to lock her office and suspend the salaries and allowances of her legislative aides for the duration.
