The Nigerian Senate is on the brink of a major showdown following the recommendation of a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) by the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
The committee’s decision comes in response to her explosive allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a claim that has sent shockwaves through the nation’s political corridors.
During Thursday’s plenary, the committee, led by Senator Neda Imasuen, found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of all charges leveled against her, citing her refusal to appear before the panel to defend her claims.
The committee further recommended that her salary and security privileges be revoked, adding another layer of controversy to the unfolding drama.
At the heart of the storm are Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations against Akpabio, which she first made public earlier this year.
She alleged that the Senate President not only obstructed her legislative motions—particularly those concerning the Ajaokuta Steel Company—but also made derogatory remarks about her, including referring to her as a “night club girl” on the Senate floor.
While Akpabio later apologised for the remark, he has consistently denied all allegations of sexual misconduct, dismissing them as baseless and politically motivated.
Adding to the tensions, the committee has demanded that Akpoti-Uduaghan issue a formal apology to the Senate for what it described as “disrespectful conduct.”
Her absence during the probe, despite prior notifications, has been used as further justification for the disciplinary action.
