The Senate Committee on Ethics has recommended a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over alleged violations of Senate rules. If approved, she will lose her office, salary, and legislative privileges.
The Nigerian Senate is poised to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following recommendations from the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct. The committee, led by Senator Neda Imasuen, cited violations of Senate rules as the primary reason for the disciplinary action.
According to the report, Senator Natasha will be barred from the National Assembly premises, have her office sealed, and lose her salary along with that of her legislative aides. Additionally, she will not be permitted to represent Nigeria in any official capacity during the suspension. The committee also noted that she could submit a written apology, which may be considered in reviewing her suspension.
The Senate is expected to vote on the recommendation, which could see Senator Natasha stripped of all legislative privileges for the duration of her suspension.
This development is the latest in an ongoing feud between Senator Natasha and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The dispute, which initially stemmed from a seating arrangement issue, escalated when the senator accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office.
Earlier, the same committee dismissed her petition against Akpabio, labeling it “dead on arrival.” However, Senator Natasha resubmitted the petition during Thursday’s plenary. Despite this, the Senate is moving forward with the suspension proceedings, with a final decision expected soon.
Observers believe this suspension could set a precedent for disciplinary actions within the Nigerian legislature, raising questions about the balance of power and internal governance within the Senate.
