The Nigerian Senate is facing a crisis of unity following the controversial suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central). Accusations of a rushed process and disregard for due process have ignited a firestorm, exposing deep rifts within the upper chamber.
A Hasty Hearing Raises Eyebrows
Concerns center around the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions’ handling of the case.
Despite the absence of many ranking senators attending a tax reform retreat, the committee, led by Senator Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo South), moved forward with the hearing unexpectedly.
One anonymous ranking Senator stated, “It was a rushed assignment. Why the hurry? Why didn’t the committee wait? The absence of ranking Senators from the process shows we knew where it was heading.” This insider account suggests a pre-determined outcome and a disregard for proper procedure.
Ignoring the Law?
Further fueling the controversy is the allegation that the probe proceeded despite a court injunction. “We are lawmakers, and we must follow due process,” the Senator emphasized. “We can’t be disobeying the law of the land and expect our laws to be obeyed. This was why thirteen of us refused to participate or sign the report against Senator Natasha.”
The Suspension and its Ramifications
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, citing a violation of Senate Standing Rules, followed her protest against the reassignment of her seat. The Senate deemed her actions brought the chamber into disrepute.
The consequences of the suspension are severe:
- Six-month ban from all legislative activities
- Locked office and return of all Senate property
- Suspension of salary and allowances
- Withdrawal of security detail
- Prohibition from entering National Assembly premises
- withdrawal of the snator name
While the committee initially sought to halt payments to her legislative aides, Senators Orji Uzor Kalu and Ned Nwoko successfully moved to ensure their continued compensation. A plea from Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro to reduce the suspension to three months was rejected.
The Incident That Sparked the Fire
The suspension stems from a heated confrontation on February 20th, when Akpoti-Uduaghan discovered her seat reassigned and her nameplate removed. Her demand for an explanation ignited a tense standoff during a plenary session.
A Path to Reinstatement?
The Senate has offered to reconsider the suspension if Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan if she submits a written apology, leaving a narrow path for reconciliation amidst the growing turmoil.
