The Nigerian Senate has responded to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), stating that the suspension of Kogi lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, was due to “gross misconduct” and not her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Background of the Controversy
Senator Natasha had taken her case to the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Conference in New York, arguing that her suspension was an injustice. The IPU, after hearing her complaint, assured her that it would investigate the matter further.
In response, the Nigerian Senate, through Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, issued a letter rejecting claims that the suspension was linked to the sexual harassment allegations. The letter, read by Hon. Kafilat Ogbara at the event, emphasized that Natasha was suspended for repeated misconduct and violations of Senate Standing Orders.
Calls for Investigation
Despite the Senate’s stance, Ogbara called for a full investigation into Natasha’s allegations against Akpabio. She reiterated that the suspension followed due legislative process.
Senator Natasha, however, remains resolute, vowing to continue her fight against what she calls “injustice.”
Akpabio Denies Allegations
Senate President Akpabio has denied the allegations, insisting that he has never engaged in any form of harassment.
Tensions between the two lawmakers date back to February 20, 2025, when Senator Natasha’s seat was changed during plenary, sparking a heated exchange. Their disputes reportedly began in July 2024, when Akpabio, while reprimanding her for misconduct, remarked that the Senate was “not a nightclub,” a statement he later apologized for.
Political Reactions and Public Debate
The suspension of Senator Natasha has sparked national debate, with various groups condemning it as a suppression of gender representation in politics. The IPU’s intervention suggests that the matter may gain further international attention.
With mounting pressure from both local and international bodies, the Senate’s handling of the case will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
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