Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has petitioned the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) over her suspension and sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Speaking at the UN, she called for global intervention, alleging political victimization and threats to her safety, sparking fresh scrutiny of Nigeria’s legislative practices.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has escalated her fight against Nigerian Senate President Godswill Akpabio, formally petitioning the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) over her six-month suspension and allegations of sexual harassment.
Speaking at the Women in Parliament session at the United Nations in New York, Akpoti-Uduaghan passionately called for international intervention, describing her suspension as unjust and politically motivated. She accused Akpabio of orchestrating her removal to silence her and claimed that her ordeal reflects broader systemic issues within Nigeria’s political landscape.
The senator further expressed fears for her safety, alleging that powerful figures in Nigeria might attempt to detain her upon her return for exposing the issue on a global stage. She urged democratic institutions worldwide to hold the Nigerian Senate accountable for what she termed a blatant abuse of power.
In March, the Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan based on recommendations from the Committee on Ethics, Rules, and Code of Conduct. The suspension bars her from legislative activities, denies her salary, and prohibits her from identifying as a senator.
While Akpabio has not publicly responded to the latest allegations, sources close to the Senate leadership insist that her suspension followed due process. However, the controversy continues to spark debates on gender rights, political victimization, and power struggles within Nigeria’s legislative system.
With the IPU now involved, the case could attract significant international scrutiny, raising questions about Nigeria’s commitment to democratic principles and legislative fairness.
