Prosper Okoye
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has raised concerns over what she describes as a sustained pattern of marginalisation within the Senate, following her alleged exclusion from the Senate Committee on the North Central Development Commission (NCDC).
The senator’s complaint comes amid increased scrutiny of committee appointments in the 10th National Assembly, where membership is seen as crucial for legislative oversight, influencing policy, and representing constituency interests. Akpoti-Uduaghan said her exclusion denied her the opportunity to participate in a body whose mandate directly affects states in her geopolitical zone.
She arrived at a committee meeting expecting to take part in proceedings, only to find her name missing from the official attendance list. Attempts to clarify the omission with the committee clerk led her to the office of the committee chairman, Senator Titus Tartenger Zam, where tensions reportedly escalated. Akpoti-Uduaghan alleges the chairman indicated his actions were based on instructions from higher authorities, though no further details were provided.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelMedia Team Confrontation
The senator’s media team also became embroiled in the dispute. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s statement, released through her aide Mike Idoko, said six aides attached to the committee chairman, including his secretary, seized the phone of her cinematographer and engaged in verbal hostility. She described the incident as “unacceptable” and framed it as part of a recurring pattern of unfair treatment.
READ ALSO:
Senator Natasha Gains Access to Sealed Office After 6 Months
Natasha’s Cybercrime Trial Stalled, Adjourned to October 20
Double Jeopardy: Effiong Slams Nigerian Senate Over Natasha’s Suspension Standoff
Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her commitment to institutional fairness and accountability, emphasising that all senators are constitutionally equal in authority and mandate. She pledged to continue advocating for equitable treatment in committee assignments and other legislative processes, asserting that her stance reflects the electoral mandate given to her by the people of Kogi Central.
Prosper Okoye is a Correspondent and Research Writer at Prime Business Africa, a Nigerian journalist with experience in development reporting, public affairs, and policy-focused storytelling across Africa
