Tensions within the Nigerian Senate escalated on Thursday as Senate President Godswill Akpabio criticised Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for taking her grievances beyond the legislative chamber to an international audience.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was recently suspended for six months over alleged rule violations, addressed the United Nations Inter-parliamentary Conference in New York earlier this week. There, she accused Akpabio of victimisation, abuse of office, and sexual harassment.
Reacting during the Senate’s plenary session, Akpabio denounced her actions, arguing that she misrepresented the issue and unfairly painted the Senate in a negative light. He also praised federal lawmaker Kafilat Ogbara for countering the senator’s claims, stating that the version presented to the international media was inconsistent with the reality of the Senate proceedings.
“She deliberately distorted the facts and globalised the matter, embarrassing the Senate in the process,” Akpabio stated. “I commend Hon. Kafilat for ensuring that the truth was made clear to the international community.”
The Senate President further expressed concern that Akpoti-Uduaghan bypassed legislative procedures by taking the matter directly to court and later to an international forum, warning that such actions could have broader implications for political representation.
“If senators take internal matters to global platforms without due process, it could discourage future appointments of women to key political positions,” Akpabio remarked.
Despite the controversy, Akpabio received a vote of confidence from his colleagues, reinforcing his leadership amid ongoing disputes within the Senate. Urging lawmakers to remain committed to their legislative responsibilities, he said, “Let us not allow distractions to derail the important work we have before us.”
With both sides holding firm to their positions, the incident underscores deepening divisions within the upper chamber, raising questions about internal governance and the handling of disciplinary actions against lawmakers.
