Emmanuel OchayiSenator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended from the Nigerian Senate for misconduct. Her suspension has raised debates about fairness, legality, and Senate rules. Some believe it was an attempt to silence her, while others argue it was necessary to maintain order. Here are five key facts you need to know about her suspension.
1. Natasha Akpoti Was Suspended for Violating Senate Rules
The Senate suspended Natasha Akpoti for refusing to relocate to her newly assigned seat in the chamber. She insisted on speaking from her old seat, causing disruption. The Senate Committee on Ethics and Code of Conduct ruled that her actions violated Order 6(1) and (2) of the Senate Standing Orders.
READ ALSO: Sexual Harassment: Why Natasha’s Case Is A Ticking Time Bomb
The Senate Leader, Bamidele Opeyemi, clarified last week based on the misinformation that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for sexual harssment allegation instad of gross misconduct, she made against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. “The Authority of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria firmly rebuts the deliberate misinformation and false narratives being circulated by certain media organizations regarding the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan.
“Let it be unequivocally stated that Senator Uduaghan was suspended solely for her persistent acts of misconduct, blatant disregard for the provisions of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended) and gross indiscipline—nothing more, nothing less.
2. She Was Accused of Disrupting Senate Proceedings
According to the Senate report, Natasha Akpoti’s refusal to leave the chamber after being instructed by the presiding officer led to a commotion. The Senate considered this behaviour unethical and unbecoming of a senator. This incident was a major factor in her suspension.
3. Why Natsha’s Petition on Sexual Harassment Was Rejected
Natasha Akpoti attempted to submit a petition on alleged sexual harassment against the Senate President which was signed by herself. The petition could have even be accepted if signed by another lawmaker or her husband. However, the Senate rejected the petition because it was signed by her, which is against Senate rules. Order 40(4) states that a senator cannot submit a petition signed by themselves.
4. She Declined to Appear Before the Senate Committee
The Senate invited Natasha Akpoti to explain her actions before the Committee on Ethics and Code of Conduct, but she did not attend. The committee viewed her absence as disrespectful to the Senate, further justifying their decision to suspend her.
5. Consequences of Natsha’s Suspension
Natasha’s suspension is to last for six months. During this period, she will not be receiving a salary. The senator will not be allowed within the premises of the National Assembly while her suspension lasts. Her security details will be withdrawn.
Natasha Akpoti’s suspension remains a major topic of discussion in Nigeria’s political space. While the Senate insists that rules must be followed, her supporters argue that she was silenced for being outspoken. The situation raises questions about legislative procedures, fairness, and accountability.
