The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has assured that a thorough review will be conducted regarding the suspension of Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, after considering all perspectives involved. IPU Responds to Senator Natasha’s Plea In a video published by Vanguard on Wednesday, IPU President Tulia Ackson addressed the concerns raised by Senator Natasha, who sought intervention from the IPU and the United Nations (UN) over what she termed an unjust suspension. During the Women in Parliament session at the IPU meeting, Natasha emphasized the need for justice, describing her suspension as political victimization. She urged global democratic institutions to take action against gender-based discrimination in leadership. Senator Natasha Speaks on Political Suppression Expressing her distress, Senator Natasha recounted the events leading to her suspension: “I come with a heavy heart from Nigeria, not to bring shame to my country, but to seek help for Nigerian women. On March 6, 2025, I was unlawfully suspended after filing a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging sexual harassment.” According to her, the petition was intended to prompt an impartial investigation. However, instead of being addressed, she faced suspension and severe punitive measures, including the withdrawal of her security, official vehicles, and salary. She was also prohibited from participating in National Assembly affairs for six months, both locally and internationally. Natasha condemned the suspension as a direct attack on democracy and an attempt to suppress the voices of her constituents. She argued that if a female senator could be treated this way publicly, it highlighted the wider struggles of Nigerian women in workplaces and institutions. IPU Promises Due Process and Balanced Review Responding to her statement, IPU President Tulia Ackson acknowledged the concerns and affirmed that the organization would take appropriate action after hearing both sides of the dispute. “We have listened to Senator Natasha’s concerns, and while it is essential to understand her perspective, it is also necessary to consider the other side. As per IPU’s customary procedure, we will evaluate the issue thoroughly before making any decisions.” Ackson further noted that another Nigerian delegate had requested the opportunity to speak but was unable to do so due to time constraints. However, she assured that all perspectives would be accounted for in the IPU’s review process. Awaiting Further Developments The commitment by the IPU to conduct a fair assessment signals potential future developments in the case. As the global parliamentary body deliberates on the issue, stakeholders await further decisions on Natasha’s suspension and its implications for women in leadership within Nigeria. For additional insights, visit Inter-Parliamentary Union’s official website. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
PANDEF Condemns Politicization of Allegations The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has firmly opposed demands for the resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio following sexual harassment allegations leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Meanwhile, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has criticized the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), accusing it of politicizing the controversy. CAN Calls for Mediation, Rejects Premature Resignation Demands Speaking on behalf of CAN in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Rev. Joseph Hayab described the dispute as “regrettable and embarrassing.” He urged respected national elders to intervene to uphold the credibility of the National Assembly. “There is an urgent need for mediation. Akpabio and Natasha both have figures they hold in high regard. It is crucial that members of the National Assembly take responsibility in managing this issue professionally,” CAN stated during a media session in Kaduna. The religious body dismissed calls for Akpabio’s resignation, describing them as unwarranted and lacking merit due to the absence of concrete evidence against him. “Groups demanding Akpabio’s resignation should reconsider, as no conclusive proof has been established against him. It is essential to address sexual harassment allegations with seriousness but also fairness and impartiality,” CAN emphasized. CAN further urged media organizations to exercise caution in their reportage, warning that sensationalism could deepen national divisions along gender and regional lines. Additionally, the association advised political actors to remain focused on governance, highlighting the importance of the timely passage of the 2025 national budget. PANDEF Criticizes ACF for Politicizing the Allegations In a separate statement, PANDEF strongly criticized the ACF, accusing it of leveraging the allegations for political purposes aimed at discrediting Southern leaders and positioning Northern Nigeria for the 2027 elections. PANDEF National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, condemned the ACF’s claims of bias against Northern senators, asserting that they were intended to stoke regional tensions and weaken President Bola Tinubu’s government. “The ACF’s press release is a direct political attack on Southern Nigeria. Their assertion that only Northern senators are being suspended, and their call for Northern senators to unite against perceived bias, is an outright threat to national unity,” Ominimini stated. He recalled that during the 8th Senate, a Southern senator was suspended under a Northern Senate President, yet PANDEF refrained from interfering in legislative matters. “The Senate operates by a set of rules and procedures. Suspensions and disciplinary actions are standard legislative processes. Any aggrieved party has legal options to challenge decisions. However, the ACF’s actions amount to a divisive maneuver that threatens national stability,” PANDEF declared. The group further rejected what it termed an attempt to promote an “anti-Arewa” narrative and called on security agencies to interrogate ACF National Publicity Secretary, Prof. T. A. Muhammad-Baba, over comments it considered inciting. With CAN advocating for restraint and PANDEF opposing political interference, the allegations against Akpabio continue to fuel national discourse, raising concerns about governance, unity, and political maneuvering within the legislature. Reputable News Source READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, has strongly denied the sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Allegation Against Akpabio Senator Natasha, representing Kogi Central, recently accused Senate President Akpabio of making inappropriate advances towards her. She claimed that during a visit to Akpabio’s residence in Ikot-Ekpene to celebrate his birthday in December 2023, he allegedly requested an intimate relationship while showing her around his home. Appearing on Arise TV’s The Morning Show on February 28, 2025, Natasha stated that the Senate President repeated the request when she visited his office to discuss her motion regarding Ajaokuta Steel Company. Senator Nwaebonyi Dismisses Harassment Claim However, Senator Nwaebonyi has dismissed the claim, asserting that Akpabio never harassed or even came close to Senator Natasha during the birthday event. Speaking on Arise TV on March 3, 2025, Nwaebonyi stated that he was present at the celebration and witnessed the entire event. “On the issue of sexual harassment as alleged by Senator Natasha, I was an eyewitness, and I have narrated the real events on social media. On December 8, 2023, I was among the Senators who attended the birthday celebration of the Senate President,” he said. He further detailed that he traveled in the same vehicle with Senator Natasha and her husband to the event, attending various activities with Akpabio within Uyo before proceeding to Ikot-Ekpene. Natasha Was Never Alone With Akpabio – Nwaebonyi Nwaebonyi emphasized that Natasha never accompanied her colleagues on a tour of Akpabio’s residence, as she stayed back in the sitting area with her husband. “I must state clearly that Senator Natasha never joined us when the Senate President was showing us around. She was in the parlour with her husband, while Akpabio took us through different sections of his home, including a chapel where Catholic senators joined in a Holy Mass,” he added. He firmly refuted Natasha’s claim that Akpabio invited her to “have a good time” at his house, stating, “There was never a time the Senate President touched Senator Natasha or made any such comment. She knows that very well.” Motive Behind Natasha’s Allegation According to Nwaebonyi, Senator Natasha’s claim stemmed from her dissatisfaction with a recent decision to relocate her seat in the Senate and make changes to her committee assignment. “It is shocking and unfortunate for a Senator to fabricate such a serious allegation simply because of a seat reassignment or committee change,” he remarked. When asked about the Senate’s response to the matter, Nwaebonyi clarified that the Senate would not act on unverified accusations. “The Senate cannot take action based on hearsay. Senator Natasha has never officially presented any issue regarding this matter,” he concluded. Conclusion The allegation made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio remains unproven, with key witnesses denying any inappropriate conduct. As the controversy continues, it remains to be seen whether further evidence will emerge or if the matter will be pursued in any formal capacity. Read more on Nigerian Senate affairs READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
