Senators Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Sunday Karimi Clash Over Suspension Controversy Suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and Kogi West Senator, Sunday Karimi, engaged in a heated war of words over her recent suspension from the Nigerian Senate. The dispute escalated as Karimi defended the decision, arguing that her conduct in the Senate justified the disciplinary action. Karimi, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisted that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was necessary due to the controversy surrounding her actions, which he claimed had embarrassed Kogi State. He further suggested that former Governor Yahaya Bello had foreseen this issue, reinforcing concerns about her suitability for the Red Chamber. “All our advice to her fell on deaf ears. One cannot ignore the fact that Yahaya Bello saw this coming,” Karimi stated while addressing journalists. The senator further alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan had tarnished Kogi State’s reputation and that her actions had contributed to a negative perception of the state across the country. Akpoti-Uduaghan Fires Back, Calls for Senate Drug Tests Reacting to Karimi’s remarks, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed his claims, stating that personal interests were influencing Senate decisions. She went further to propose periodic drug testing for senators, arguing that such measures would enhance rational decision-making within the legislature. “The NDLEA needs to conduct periodic tests on senators. That singular process will save the parliament from erratic legislative hallucinations,” she remarked through her media aide, Israel Arogbonlo. Akpoti-Uduaghan referenced previous calls by NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, for political aspirants to undergo drug screenings, emphasizing that similar tests had already been conducted for local government candidates in Kano State. She asserted that extending this policy to senators would help safeguard the integrity of legislative proceedings and ensure effective governance. Political Fallout and Implications The suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan followed a confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, an incident that has ignited political tensions in Kogi State and beyond. The controversy has further deepened divisions within the Senate, with some lawmakers supporting disciplinary measures while others call for a review of the decision. For a broader perspective on Nigeria’s legislative reforms and governance integrity, read this analysis on legislative accountability by a leading political affairs expert. Conclusion The Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan suspension controversy underscores the ongoing political power struggle within the Nigerian Senate. While Karimi defends the disciplinary action as a necessary move to uphold legislative standards, Akpoti-Uduaghan insists that Senate reforms—including mandatory drug testing—are crucial for maintaining integrity in governance. As debates over the incident continue, Nigerians closely watch how this clash will shape the political landscape and the future of legislative conduct in the country. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
ABUJA – Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), stating that her actions may negatively impact the inclusion of women in high-ranking political positions in Nigeria. During a plenary session on Tuesday, Akpabio expressed concerns that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s approach to her allegations against him could have far-reaching consequences for women seeking leadership roles in governance. “When this matter began, she initially submitted it as a petition to the Senate but did not allow deliberation before taking it to court. Even then, she escalated it to the international stage before the judiciary could resolve it,” Akpabio stated. Drawing a comparison, he said it would be similar to U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris accusing President Joe Biden of misconduct over a mere handshake, potentially setting a precedent discouraging female appointments. Despite his concerns, Akpabio urged politicians not to let one individual’s actions affect opportunities for others, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring a fair playing field for women, including his four daughters. Senate Passes Vote of Confidence in Akpabio Following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension for misconduct and her sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio, the Senate unanimously passed a vote of confidence in his leadership on Tuesday. The motion was raised by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) under Senate Rules Orders 40 and 51. Bamidele dismissed claims that the Senate ignored sexual harassment allegations, clarifying that no formal report was submitted between August 2023 and now. The Ethics and Privileges Committee had only reviewed a petition regarding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s breach of Senate regulations. Akpabio Criticizes Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Appeal to International Bodies Akpabio also criticized Akpoti-Uduaghan for externalizing the issue by presenting her case to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in New York, where she alleged that her suspension was retaliation for speaking against sexual harassment. “She left the chamber and went on Brekete Radio and Arise Television to misrepresent the situation. She has now taken it to the IPU UN event, trying to embarrass Nigeria with a misleading narrative.” Akpabio commended Rt. Hon. Kafilat Okpara for countering Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims at the international event, ensuring that Nigeria’s image was not tarnished. Senate Leader: Allegations Are a Diversion Senate Leader Bamidele clarified that the Senate’s actions were based on legislative rules, not external pressures. He refuted allegations that Akpabio presided over his own case, stating that the proceedings strictly focused on disciplinary measures for rule violations. “Some claim the Senate has no right to suspend a senator. That is a legal matter for the courts. However, our rules are clear on disciplinary actions.” Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Olalere Oyewumi (PDP, Osun West), seconded the motion, and the Senate unanimously adopted it. Senate Focuses on Governance After Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North), called on lawmakers to redirect their focus toward governance and the 2025 budget implementation, now that the issue is before the court. The Senate’s resolutions on Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension include: However, following a motion by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North), seconded by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North), it was decided that her legislative aides would continue receiving their salaries. Despite her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken her case to the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), arguing that her suspension was unjustified. For a deeper insight into legislative processes, visit the Nigerian Senate’s Official Website. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel Kindly Share:
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The Nigerian Senate has debunked widespread claims that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Instead, the legislative body clarified that her suspension resulted from repeated violations of Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended) and a pattern of unparliamentary behavior. Why Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Was Suspended According to Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Akpoti-Uduaghan was sanctioned for disregarding Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the Senate’s procedural rules. In a statement released on Saturday, Bamidele refuted media reports insinuating that her suspension stemmed from accusations against Akpabio, labeling such claims as misleading and deliberately deceptive. Following the recommendations of its Committee on Ethics and Privileges, the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing misconduct and her refusal to adhere to assigned seating arrangements during plenary sessions. However, the chamber provided an opportunity for reconsideration, stating that if Akpoti-Uduaghan submits a formal apology, the leadership may lift the suspension before the six-month period elapses. Instead of adhering to Senate protocols, Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly misled the public by claiming she was targeted for her sexual harassment allegations. Bamidele emphasized that disciplinary action against the senator was solely based on her conduct and non-compliance with established legislative rules. Procedural Flaws in Sexual Harassment Petition Bamidele further disclosed that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition on sexual harassment failed to meet the Senate’s procedural requirements for submitting complaints. He reiterated that if she had followed due process, the petition would have been assessed on merit. “The Senate has noted various misleading media reports falsely linking Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension to allegations of sexual harassment. This narrative is entirely incorrect. The senator’s failure to adhere to Senate guidelines led to disciplinary action,” the statement read. The Ethics and Privileges Committee found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of breaching Senate Standing Orders, leading to her suspension. The violations cited in the report include: Public Trust and Democratic Implications The Advocacy for Integrity and Rule of Law (AIRL), a civic rights organization, has warned that the Senate’s handling of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension could erode public trust and jeopardize democratic values. AIRL Chairman, Mohammed Ibrahim Gamawa, stressed the need for legislative restraint, warning that denying Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituency representation could damage the Senate’s reputation. The group described the ongoing Senate dispute as a “show of shame” that could undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions. AIRL urged the 10th Senate to prioritize national interest and resolve the conflict through dialogue to prevent long-term political instability. Conclusion As tensions persist, stakeholders continue to call for transparency in governance. The Senate’s actions and responses will determine whether this controversy fades or escalates into a larger political crisis. To maintain institutional credibility, political leaders must act in accordance with democratic principles and constitutional provisions. Premium Times 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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Emerging details indicate deep divisions within the Nigerian Senate regarding the recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) for six months. Controversy Over Senate Ethics Committee’s Decision Concerns have been raised about the swift actions taken by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo South), in processing the disciplinary case against Akpoti-Uduaghan. Several senators, including senior members, were unavailable due to a tax reform retreat organized by the Senate Committee on Finance. Despite this, the hearing was unexpectedly expedited, raising suspicions about the motive behind the process. A high-ranking senator, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that the initial date for the hearing was Tuesday, March 11. However, it was abruptly rescheduled, leaving many lawmakers questioning the urgency. He noted, “This process was unnecessarily rushed. Why the urgency? Why couldn’t the committee wait for full participation? The absence of senior Senators during the proceedings suggests the outcome was predetermined.” Additionally, the senator criticized the committee for proceeding despite a court injunction that had temporarily halted the investigation. “As lawmakers, we must adhere to due process. This was why 13 of us refused to sign the report,” he explained. Details of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension On Thursday, the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for allegedly violating the Senate Standing Rules 2023 (as amended). The disciplinary action followed her protest over the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on February 20. The Senate justified the suspension by claiming she had brought the presiding officer and the chamber into disrepute. As part of the suspension terms: Initially, the committee’s report recommended that salaries for her legislative aides be halted as well. However, a motion introduced by former Chief Whip Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North) and supported by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North) ensured that her aides would continue receiving their payments. Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) had appealed for a reduction of the suspension period to three months, but his plea was rejected by the chamber. Background of the Suspension The suspension stemmed from a heated exchange during a Senate plenary session after Akpoti-Uduaghan discovered that her seat had been reassigned, and her nameplate removed. This led to a tense standoff as she demanded an explanation from Senate leadership. The Senate has indicated that it may reconsider her suspension if she formally submits a written apology. External Insights and Public Reactions This suspension has sparked widespread debate regarding legislative due process and internal political dynamics. According to a report by Premium Times, political analysts argue that the situation exposes underlying rifts within the Senate and raises concerns about fairness in handling disciplinary measures against lawmakers. 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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Overview Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been suspended for six months by the Nigerian Senate following a sexual harassment allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The decision was made during Thursday’s plenary session based on the recommendation of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. Suspension Details The suspension entails the withdrawal of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s salary and security details. She is also barred from accessing the National Assembly premises. Her office will be locked, and her legislative aides will not receive salaries during this period. The Senate confirmed there would be no reconsideration of her status until the six-month suspension ends or if she issues a formal apology. What Led to the Suspension? The suspension stems from a recent incident where Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan protested the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She arrived at a plenary session to find her nameplate removed and her seat reassigned. She saw this as an attempt to silence her voice within the Senate. Senate’s Stand The Ethics Committee initially recommended a six-month suspension, which was later reduced to three months after a plea by Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South). However, the Senate voted overwhelmingly to uphold the six-month suspension as advised by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions. Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro supported the disciplinary action, likening it to “correcting a child,” drawing on Nigerian cultural norms. Steps to Appeal To appeal the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan must submit a formal written apology to the Senate, acknowledging the alleged violation of Senate rules. External Link For more information on the Nigerian Senate’s code of conduct, visit the Official Nigerian Senate Website. Conclusion This suspension serves as a reminder of the stringent measures the Senate can take to maintain decorum. It also highlights the ongoing discourse on gender and power dynamics within Nigerian politics. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
