The Nigerian Senate has responded to calls for fairness in the case of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following a request by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) President, Tulia Sackson, to hear both sides of the issue. The official statement, presented by Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Nigeria’s representative at the IPU and Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, was signed by the Senate Leader, Senator Bamidele Okpeyemi CON.
The Senate categorically refuted allegations that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was linked to claims of sexual harassment or the submission of a petition. Instead, it emphasized that her six-month suspension was solely due to “gross misconduct, blatant disregard for Senate rules, and indiscipline.”
According to the statement, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s disciplinary action resulted from multiple violations of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended). The Senate detailed her infractions, which included: refusing to sit in her assigned seat during plenary on February 25, 2025, despite repeated pleas; speaking without recognition from the presiding officer, contrary to parliamentary rules; engaging in disruptive behavior that obstructed Senate proceedings; making abusive remarks against Senate leadership; and defying summons from the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges.
The Senate clarified that her petition on sexual harassment allegations was not dismissed based on its content but because it failed to adhere to procedural requirements. The statement asserted that all petitions, regardless of subject matter, must follow due process before being considered. Any claims suggesting that her suspension was linked to her petition were labeled as “false, misleading, and politically motivated.”
Additionally, the Senate condemned what it called “irresponsible and unethical” media reports that allegedly distorted the facts of the suspension. It accused certain media organizations of misrepresenting the situation to push a false narrative, urging foreign correspondents and responsible media outlets to rectify any misleading reports.
The Senate reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, order, and parliamentary ethics, stating that no senator—regardless of gender, status, or political affiliation—is above the rules of the legislative body. It urged the public to disregard misinformation and emphasized that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was a direct consequence of her actions.
The statement concluded with a call for transparency and fair reporting, reiterating the Senate’s position that the disciplinary measures were necessary to maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s foremost democratic institution.
