The Nigerian Senate has suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following her allegation of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The decision was based on a report from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which cited violations of Senate Rules.
“That the Senate do suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months for her total violation of the Senate Standing Rules (2023 as amended for bringing the presiding officer and the entire Nigerian Senate to public opprobrium,” Senate President Godswill Akpabio said on Thursday.
Committee Chairman Senator Imasuen Neda Bernards stated that an investigation was conducted, giving Akpoti-Uduaghan an opportunity to present her side. Testimonies were reviewed to determine the credibility of her claims.
The committee also referred to an incident the previous week, where she allegedly caused disruption by refusing her assigned seat and engaging in a shouting match. Senator Raphael Adeyemi Adaramodu, who filed a petition against her, testified about the event.
Several senators supported the suspension, emphasising the need to uphold Senate rules. However, Minority Leader Abba Moro pleaded for leniency, suggesting a three-month suspension instead.
Despite this, Senate President Akpabio upheld the six-month suspension following a voice vote.
Akpoti-Uduaghan is required to surrender all National Assembly properties, withdraw her security details, and her office will be sealed by the Sergeant-at-Arms to prevent access.
However, the lawmakers ruled that she could have her suspension lifted or shortened by providing a written apology.
“That the Senate do suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months for her total violation of the Senate Standing Rules (2023 as amended for bringing the presiding officer and the entire Nigerian Senate to public opprobrium,” Senate President Godswill Akpabio said on Thursday.
