The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan left the chambers Thursday promising to fight the injustice meted to her shortly after her six-month suspension was upheld following a recommendation by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions.
The decision, announced during Thursday’s plenary, cited a violation of the Senate Standing Rules 2023 as amended although she never had a chance to defend herself before the committee.
The committee, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen of LP-Edo South, accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of misconduct and dismissed her allegations that Senate President Godswill Akpabio had been deliberately silencing her in the chamber. The Senate described her claims as baseless and frivolous.
As the suspension was pronounced, Akpoti-Uduaghan defiantly walked out of the chamber, declaring, “This injustice cannot be sustained.” She has also been directed to issue a formal written apology regarding her allegations against Akpabio.
The suspension comes with several restrictions, including the immediate return of all Senate property in her possession and a directive prohibiting her from entering or being near the legislative chamber for the duration of the suspension. Her salary and security details will also be withdrawn during this period.
Read More: Senate may suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months
The controversy stems from an ongoing rift between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio, which escalated after she accused the Senate President of bias and obstruction of her legislative motions, particularly those concerning the Ajaokuta Steel Company. The conflict further deepened when she claimed Akpabio referred to her as a “night club girl,” a remark he later apologized for.
During the session, Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, PDP-Benue South, acknowledged that Akpoti-Uduaghan had violated Senate rules but appealed for a reduction of the suspension to three months, urging lawmakers to temper justice with mercy.
With the suspension now in effect, political observers are watching to see if Akpoti-Uduaghan will comply with the Senate’s directives or take further steps to challenge the decision.
Crediblenews.ng.com
