March 06, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Senate, on Thursday, suspended Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months.
This followed the adoption of a report of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, presented at plenary session by its chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South).
The Senate had referred the Kogi Central Senator to the Committee for disciplinary action over her conduct.
THEWILL had reported the uproar at Senate plenary on 20th February as dispute over seating arrangements led to a heated exchange between Natasha and Akpabio. The commotion began after the Kogi Senator voiced her displeasure at the change of her seat.
Presenting the report at plenary on Thursday, Imasuen said the panel found Natasha guilty of all allegations against her. The report dismissed her allegation that Akpabio had discriminated her in the chamber.
The committee recommended a “six-month suspension from all legislative activities, starting on March 6, 2025; Immediate return of all Senate properties in her possession; a directive prohibiting her presence in or near the legislative chamber during the suspension period.” The committee also mandated Natasha to issue a written apology regarding her allegations against Akpabio.
Debating the report, Senate Chief Whip, Mohammed Monguno, urged the lawmakers to protect the Senate rules.
Also, the senator representing Ondo South, Jimoh Ibrahim, expressed concern over Natasha’s conduct.
“This institution is not about an individual. We have rules to regulate our activities. If we breach our own rules, the executive will not come here to enforce them, and I must commend the committee for the succinct report to the Senate”, he said.
Speaking on behalf of PDP Senators, Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, pleaded for mercy and a mitigation option, recommending a three-month suspension.
In his contribution, Senate President, Akpabio, recalled the long family relationship between him and Natasha’s husband.
“The Senator we are talking about is the wife of my very close friend and brother. On the day of her marriage, I slept in their house in the year 2020, and when I was to leave, I missed my flight at Obajana Airstrip and I slept again at Dangote Cement”, he said.
However, the lawmakers adopted Natasha’s suspension for six months, as well as other recommendations when the report was put to a voice vote.
As part of the suspension, Natasha’s salary and security details will be withdrawn, and she will be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises. Her office will also be locked, and her legislative aides will not receive their salaries during this period. The Senate further ruled out reconsidering her suspension until the six-month term ends or she submits a formal apology.
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