The Nigerian Senate has justified the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, clarifying before the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) that her removal was due to gross misconduct and not related to allegations of sexual harassment.
Speaking at the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, dismissed claims by Akpoti-Uduaghan that she was suspended for raising allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Senate’s Position on the Suspension
Ogbara, mandated by the National Assembly to respond, stated:
“Such allegations demand a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation. At the same time, we must ensure fairness for all individuals involved and that justice is neither predetermined nor one-sided.”
She highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to women’s rights and legislative reforms aimed at fostering gender inclusivity in politics.
In a position paper presented by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate stated:
“Senator Natasha-Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for gross misconduct and unruly behaviour, not due to allegations of sexual harassment or assault.”
The statement further explained:
- Violation of Senate Rules: Akpoti-Uduaghan was found guilty of violating Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the Senate rules.
- Unruly Conduct: She allegedly refused to sit in her assigned seat, engaged in disruptive behaviour, and made disrespectful remarks against the Senate leadership.
- Defying Senate Committee Summons: She reportedly refused to appear before the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, which investigated her conduct.
The Senate insisted that her suspension was necessary to restore order and uphold the integrity of the legislative body.
Akpoti-Uduaghan Escalates Case to the UN
On Tuesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan took her case to a United Nations forum, calling for international intervention to hold the Nigerian Senate accountable.
Meanwhile, the Senate has urged media organisations to correct misrepresentations, warning against the spread of false narratives that undermine Nigeria’s legislative process.