Natasha suspended for misconduct, not harassment claim - Senate

The Nigerian Senate has justified its decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before the Inter-Parliamentary Union, clarifying that the suspension was not connected to allegations of sexual harassment but rather due to serious misconduct.

During her address to the IPU on Wednesday, Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, refuted Akpoti-Uduaghan's assertions made at a United Nations event, which claimed that her suspension stemmed from her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Ogbara indicated that she had been tasked by the National Assembly to respond to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s remarks made at the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women.

"In response to the request from the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Right Honorable Tulia Ackson, to consider both perspectives on this issue, I have received a letter from the Nigerian Senate in my role as Chair of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, as well as the parliamentarian representing Nigeria at this conference," she remarked.
She stated that such allegations necessitate a comprehensive, unbiased, and transparent investigation. Concurrently, it is essential to guarantee that fairness is maintained for all parties involved, ensuring that justice is neither predetermined nor biased.

“Nigeria is steadfast in its commitment to promoting women's rights and addressing gender-based violence through robust legal frameworks and institutions. Our Parliament and Judiciary are undergoing reforms aimed at enhancing these initiatives.

“The current legislative efforts aim to rectify historical disparities in women's representation within our Parliament, including the Reserve Seats Bill and other significant proposed constitutional amendments designed to protect the rights and privileges of women. These initiatives highlight our dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable political environment.”

In response to the allegations against Akpabio, Ogbara remarked, “It is crucial to acknowledge that both the allegations and the responses are serious issues that necessitate thorough and impartial examination. This matter, which is currently subjudice, encompasses various aspects, including claims of sexual harassment and possible breaches of Senate regulations. While it is important to reflect on and understand any potential connections, these issues must also be evaluated independently.

“It is vital to uphold the principles of fairness and ensure that no individual is judged prematurely without a transparent and unbiased process. Therefore, I advocate for the following measures: a comprehensive and impartial investigation that examines all claims and defenses fairly and transparently.

“Protection for all parties involved, safeguarding the rights of every individual, and preventing any form of intimidation or retaliation, accountability and transparency, and maintaining institutional integrity by ensuring that due process is strictly adhered to.”

She subsequently presented the position paper of the Senate, authored by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.
It is essential that we adhere to the principles of equity and ensure that no individual faces premature judgment without a clear and unbiased process. Consequently, I advocate for the following measures: a comprehensive and impartial investigation that guarantees all allegations and defenses are evaluated fairly and transparently.

This includes the protection of all parties involved, safeguarding the rights of every individual, and preventing any form of intimidation or retaliation. Additionally, it is crucial to maintain accountability and transparency while upholding institutional integrity by strictly adhering to due process.

Subsequently, she presented the position paper from the Senate, authored by Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.

The Senate's statement included the following: "Senator Natasha-Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended due to gross misconduct and unruly behavior, not because of any allegations of sexual harassment or assault.

The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria categorically denies the intentional misinformation and false narratives being propagated by certain media outlets concerning the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha-Akpoti-Uduaghan.
It must be clearly articulated that Senator Uduaghan's suspension was a direct result of her ongoing misconduct and failure to adhere to the Senate Standing Orders.

The Senate determined that Akpoti-Uduaghan was guilty of breaching Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of its regulations, which resulted in her suspension.

Bamidele remarked, “Had Akpoti-Uduaghan adhered to the Senate's guiding principles, her petition would have been evaluated on its merits, consistent with established practices. However, she consistently disregarded the protocols of the institution she served.”

The statement further clarified, “The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was a resolution made by the Committee of the Whole Senate, following a report submitted by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges.”

The Senate accused her of “failing to occupy her designated seat during the plenary session on February 25, 2025, despite repeated requests from the leadership and senior senators,” exhibiting “disorderly and disruptive conduct,” and making “derogatory and disrespectful comments towards the Senate leadership.”

Additionally, she was charged with “defying and refusing to comply with the summons issued by the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, which was tasked with investigating misconduct.”

The Senate asserted that her suspension was essential to restore order and maintain the integrity of the legislative body.

“No senator, irrespective of their status, gender, or political affiliation, is exempt from the Senate's regulations.

“The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was a direct outcome of her actions and nothing more,” the statement emphasized.

The Senate urged media organizations to “rectify any misrepresentations” and avoid disseminating “falsehoods that could compromise the integrity of Nigeria’s legislative process.”

On Tuesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan intensified her conflict with Akpabio by presenting her case at a United Nations forum.

The senator representing Kogi Central has called for international intervention to address the situation.