The Senate is considering a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over alleged violations of Senate rules. The decision follows a report by the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct, which recommended disciplinary action against the Kogi Central lawmaker.
According to the committee’s findings, Senator Natasha’s suspension, set to begin on March 6, 2025, would come with several restrictions. She would be denied access to the National Assembly, her office would be sealed, and both her salary and those of her aides would be withheld. Additionally, she would be barred from representing Nigeria in any official capacity. However, she has the option to submit a written apology, which could prompt a review of her suspension.
The Senate’s final decision on the matter remains pending, as lawmakers are expected to vote on the committee’s recommendations. If upheld, the suspension would temporarily strip Senator Natasha of her legislative duties and privileges.
This development is linked to an ongoing rift between Senator Natasha and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which initially stemmed from a dispute over seating arrangements. The conflict later escalated when she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office. However, the Senate committee dismissed her petition, stating it lacked merit.
Undeterred, Senator Natasha resubmitted the petition during Thursday’s plenary, confirming that the case had not been taken to court. The Senate has now referred the matter back to the Ethics Committee for further investigation, with a report expected in four weeks.
