Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has fiercely condemned her suspension from the Nigerian Senate, calling it “an injustice that will not be sustained.”
The Kogi Central lawmaker, who was suspended for six months on Thursday, rejected the decision after the Senate disciplinary committee found her guilty of breaching its rules following her sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a passionate response, Senator Natasha declared, “This injustice would not stand,” vowing to continue her pursuit for justice.
The suspension, recommended by the Senate disciplinary committee, followed an investigation into her accusations of sexual misconduct and abuse of office against Akpabio.
The committee’s report led to a heated debate in the chamber, with some senators advocating for a reduction in the suspension period. Despite calls for leniency, the majority of lawmakers voted for a six-month suspension.
Senate President Akpabio, who presided over the session, read the resolution stating that Natasha’s suspension could be reconsidered or reduced if she submits a written apology to the Senate.
The committee’s original sanctions included halting Natasha’s salary and that of her aides, but this was later amended after an appeal by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who argued that her aides should not be punished for her actions.
This controversy erupted on February 20, 2025, when Natasha had a dispute with Akpabio after her seat was changed in the Senate. What started as a disagreement quickly escalated into serious allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio, which he has since denied. Natasha submitted a formal petition to the Senate, but it was dismissed before the suspension was enforced the following day.
As she prepares to challenge this decision, Senator Natasha has made it clear that she will not relent in her fight for justice.
