The Nigerian Senate has suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following her dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The decision, announced on Thursday, was based on recommendations from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct, which found her guilty of violating Senate Standing Rules (2023, as amended). Akpoti-Uduaghan was accused of bringing the Senate and its presiding officer to public disrepute.
Despite attempts by some lawmakers to reduce the suspension to three months, a majority vote upheld the six-month sanction. However, the Senate ruled that the suspension could be lifted or shortened if she submits a written apology.
“For the Senate to consider lifting this suspension or reducing the tenure, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan shall submit a written apology to the Senate before reconsideration,” Akpabio stated.
Following the ruling, the Kogi Central senator was escorted out of the chambers by the Sergeant-At-Arms. Before leaving, she protested the decision, declaring, “This injustice will not be sustained.”
The suspension marks the climax of a heated controversy that began on February 20, 2025, when a seating arrangement dispute escalated into allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of office against Akpabio. Akpoti-Uduaghan formally submitted a petition, but the Senate Committee on Ethics dismissed it, citing procedural violations.
The committee ruled that she had personally signed the petition instead of obtaining a third-party endorsement, rendering it “invalid.” After resubmitting the petition, the committee recommended her suspension, a move swiftly ratified by the Senate.
Beyond her suspension, additional sanctions were imposed, including the closure of her office, a ban from the National Assembly premises during the suspension, and the stoppage of her salary and that of her aides.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has sparked political tension, with critics questioning the Senate’s handling of the allegations and the disciplinary process.
