Akpabio, Nigeria’s Senate President Presides Over His Own Sexual Harassment Case, Suspends Senator Natasha Akpoti for 6 Months

The Nigerian Senate has suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following a Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct report.

The decision was made during Thursday’s plenary session, presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, whom Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused of sexual harassment and political victimisation.

Her suspension follows allegations that she violated Senate standing rules by bringing the chamber into disrepute. The committee’s report, presented by its Chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen, outlined several conditions for her reinstatement, including a written apology.

The suspension comes amid an ongoing dispute between Senator Natasha and Senate President Akpabio, whom she accused of sexually harassing her. In a recent interview with Arise TV, she claimed that Akpabio had made inappropriate advances toward her during a visit to his home in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, in December 2023.

According to her, their fallout led to unfair treatment and a deliberate effort to undermine her position in the Senate.

Senate’s Ruling and Conditions for Reinstatement

The committee’s recommendations, upheld by the Senate, include A six-month suspension, effective March 6, 2025. A mandatory written apology must be made before she can return. Her office will be locked, and she must surrender all government property. A ban from entering the National Assembly complex during the suspension. Suspension of her salaries, allowances, and security details. A restriction from representing Nigeria in any official capacity.

While some lawmakers pushed to reduce the suspension to three months, the Senate voted to maintain the original six-month period. When Senator Natasha attempted to speak, her microphone was switched off. Before leaving the chamber, escorted by the Sergeant-at-Arms, she declared, “This injustice will not be sustained.”

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