In a dramatic turn of events at the Nigerian Senate, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been suspended for six months following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The decision was reached during Thursday’s plenary session after the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions recommended her suspension.
As a result, her salary has been withheld, her office locked, and her security details withdrawn. She has also been barred from entering the National Assembly premises for the duration of the suspension.
What Led to the Suspension?
The controversy began when Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at a plenary session only to find that her seat had been reassigned and her nameplate removed.
She strongly protested the move, viewing it as an attempt to silence her. The situation quickly escalated, leading to a heated confrontation in the Senate chamber.
Following the incident, the matter was referred to the Senate Ethics Committee for investigation.
The committee initially recommended a six-month suspension but later reduced it to three months after Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro pleaded for leniency.
However, the Senate ultimately upheld the six-month suspension after further deliberations.
Conditions for Reinstatement
To regain her position, Akpoti-Uduaghan must submit a written apology for allegedly violating Senate rules. Until then, her legislative aides will also go unpaid, and her office will remain sealed.
This suspension has sparked mixed reactions, with some lawmakers defending the decision as a necessary disciplinary action, while others view it as a suppression of dissent.
As the political drama unfolds, all eyes remain on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s next move.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
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