The Nigerian Senate has suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The decision was reached on Thursday after a report from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions cited multiple violations of Senate rules.
Senator Imasuen Neda Bernards, chairman of the committee, presented the report to the Senate, outlining the findings of an investigation conducted on Wednesday.
According to him, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was given an opportunity to defend her claims, and testimonies were taken to verify the accuracy of her allegations.
During the proceedings, the committee noted that the senator had caused a “chaotic and rowdy session” the previous week by refusing to take her assigned seat and engaging in a verbal altercation.
Senator Raphael Adeyemi Adaramodu, who had filed a petition against Akpoti-Uduaghan, testified before the committee regarding her conduct.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Folorunsho, representing Ondo South, emphasized the need to uphold Senate regulations, arguing that no individual should be above the institution’s rules.
Similarly, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno emphasized the importance of maintaining order, stating that “only in the animal kingdom are there no rules and regulations.”
Senator Bassey Aniekun Etim also expressed his disappointment over the senator’s behavior during a February 20 session, describing it as disruptive.
Meanwhile, Minority Leader Abba Moro pleaded for leniency, suggesting that a three-month suspension would be sufficient for Akpoti-Uduaghan to reflect on her actions.
Despite the appeals, Senate President Akpabio upheld the six-month suspension following a voice vote.
He also recalled his personal connection to the embattled senator, revealing that he had attended her wedding and even stayed in her home in 2020.
As part of the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan will be required to return all National Assembly properties, her security details will be withdrawn, and her office will be sealed by the Sergeant-at-Arms to prevent access.
