The Nigerian Senate has defended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, stating it was due to misconduct, not her sexual harassment claims against Akpabio. The IPU is reviewing her case, promising fairness. Meanwhile, Natasha remains resolute, calling the suspension an injustice and vowing to fight back.
The Nigerian Senate has refuted claims that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended due to her sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. In response to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the Senate asserted that her suspension was for "gross misconduct and unruly behavior," not retaliation for her accusations. The Senate’s official stance was conveyed through a letter from Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, read at the UN Inter-Parliamentary Conference by Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, Nigeria’s representative.
Senator Natasha had taken her grievances to the IPU in New York, seeking intervention in what she called an "injustice." The IPU acknowledged her concerns but stated it would listen to both sides before taking further action. Despite the Senate’s defense, Ogbara called for a thorough investigation into Natasha’s allegations against Akpabio. Natasha's suspension, which followed her accusations and a previous petition dismissed by lawmakers, has sparked national debate, with supporters decrying political suppression while critics argue Senate rules were duly followed. Natasha remains defiant, vowing to continue her fight for justice.
