Strong divisions have emerged within the Senate following the controversial six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central). The decision, which some lawmakers have described as rushed, has sparked concerns over due process and legislative integrity.
The Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo South), reportedly expedited the investigation despite a court injunction halting the probe. The hearing, initially scheduled for March 11, was unexpectedly moved forward, raising suspicions among lawmakers.
A ranking senator, speaking anonymously, questioned the urgency of the process. “Why the hurry? The absence of ranking senators from the process shows we knew where it was heading,” he said, adding that thirteen senators refused to sign the committee’s report.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on Thursday after protesting the reassignment of her Senate seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on February 20. The Senate accused her of bringing the presiding officer and the chamber into disrepute, citing a violation of the Senate Standing Rules 2023 (as amended).
Her suspension includes a ban from all legislative activities for six months, the withdrawal of her salaries, allowances, and security details, as well as the sealing of her office. Although the committee initially recommended suspending salaries for her legislative aides, a motion led by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North) and seconded by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North) ensured they would continue receiving payments.
Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) appealed for a reduction of the suspension to three months, but his request was denied. However, the Senate has stated it would reconsider the suspension if Akpoti-Uduaghan submits a written apology.
The development has drawn widespread reactions, with political groups and stakeholders calling the suspension unjust. The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) described it as a “travesty of justice,” while Minister of Women Affairs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye has vowed to intervene. Additionally, a minister in President Tinubu’s administration has urged the Senate to reconsider the decision in the spirit of fairness.
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