The complaint filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan at the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) conference in New York on Tuesday continues to generate significant reactions.
In her address to the global body, the Kogi lawmaker presented her case, urging the IPU to intervene in what she described as an ongoing injustice against her. After hearing her grievance, the IPU assured Senator Natasha that it would take appropriate steps to address the issue after hearing from all involved parties.
However, the Nigerian Senate wasted no time in responding to her complaint. In a letter delivered by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate refuted the claims, stating that Natasha’s suspension was not a result of any allegations of sexual harassment, as some media outlets had reported. Instead, the suspension, which lasted for six months, was a consequence of “gross misconduct and unruly behavior,” according to the Senate’s statement.
The letter was read aloud by Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, the Chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, who attended the event in an official capacity representing Nigeria. The Senate’s letter firmly rejected any false narratives surrounding Senator Natasha’s suspension, emphasizing that her actions were in violation of the Senate Standing Orders.
In response to the accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Honorable Ogbara called for a thorough investigation, asserting that the Senate’s internal rules and procedures had been followed meticulously before Natasha’s suspension was enacted.
This latest development follows the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha last week, a move that has sparked widespread debate. Prior to her suspension, Natasha had submitted a petition accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment, which was dismissed by the Senate. Undeterred, Natasha submitted another petition, which was also rejected before her suspension was finalized.
Despite the backlash, Natasha has vowed to continue fighting against what she considers to be an injustice. Meanwhile, Akpabio has categorically denied any wrongdoing, stating that he has never been involved in any form of sexual assault or harassment.
The root of the tension between Natasha and Akpabio dates back to February 20, 2025, when her seat was unexpectedly changed during a plenary session. This move only deepened the rift between the two, adding to a history of conflict. In July 2024, Akpabio had reprimanded Natasha for misconduct, telling her that the Senate was not a nightclub and that members should adhere to the rules. Although he later apologized for the comment, the underlying tensions between them remained unresolved.
As the situation continues to unfold, Senator Natasha remains determined to press forward with her claims of injustice, while the Senate defends its actions as necessary for maintaining order and discipline.
