The Nigerian Senate has refuted claims by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan that her six-month suspension was linked to her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement addressed to the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Conference in New York, the Senate maintained that her suspension was due to “gross misconduct and unruly behavior,” not retaliation for her accusations.
Senator Natasha had earlier called on the international parliamentary body for intervention, alleging that she was unfairly punished after accusing Akpabio of inappropriate conduct.
However, in a letter signed by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and read by Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs, the Senate dismissed her claims.
The letter stated:
“Senator Natasha-Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for gross misconduct and disregard for Senate Standing Orders, not because of any allegations of sexual harassment. The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria firmly refutes the misinformation being circulated regarding her suspension.”
Despite the Senate’s stance, Hon. Ogbara called for a thorough investigation into the allegations against Akpabio.
She emphasized that due process was followed before Senator Natasha’s suspension.
The controversy surrounding Natasha’s suspension has sparked national debate. She had previously submitted a petition accusing Akpabio of harassment, which the Senate dismissed before ultimately suspending her.
In response, Akpabio denied the allegations, asserting that he has never assaulted any woman.
Meanwhile, Senator Natasha has vowed to continue her fight against what she describes as “injustice.”
Her dispute with the Senate President reportedly began on February 20, 2025, following a change of her designated seat in the chamber.
