The fallout from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s complaint at the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Conference in New York has continued to generate reactions, as the Nigerian Senate has formally responded to her claims of injustice.
The Kogi lawmaker had taken her case to the global body, seeking intervention over what she described as unfair treatment by the Nigerian Senate. In response, the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) acknowledged her concerns and assured her that due process would be followed, including hearing from all parties involved before taking any action.
Back home, the Nigerian Senate, through its Majority Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, issued a formal response to Natasha’s claims. The letter, read at the conference by Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, refuted allegations that her six-month suspension was linked to accusations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The letter stated:
“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for gross misconduct and unruly behaviour, not due to allegations of sexual harassment or assault. The Senate firmly refutes the deliberate misinformation being spread regarding her suspension. Her removal was solely due to repeated acts of misconduct and disregard for Senate Standing Orders.”
Despite the Senate’s position, Hon. Ogbara, who represented Nigeria at the UN event, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the allegations Natasha leveled against Akpabio.
The controversy erupted last week when the Senate suspended Natasha following a heated exchange during plenary. The suspension has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the motives behind it.
The Kogi lawmaker had earlier submitted a petition accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment, but it was dismissed by the Senate. When she submitted another petition, she was suspended, a move that has fueled suspicions of political retaliation.
Unfazed by her suspension, Senator Natasha has vowed to continue her fight against what she calls “injustice.” Meanwhile, Akpabio has denied the allegations, maintaining that he has never assaulted any woman.
Her clash with the Senate President dates back to February 20, 2025, when her seat was suddenly changed during plenary, triggering a confrontation. Their tensions, however, go further back—dating to July 2024, when Akpabio publicly rebuked her during a session, telling her the Senate “is not a nightclub where anybody can talk anyhow.” He later apologized for the comment.
As the controversy lingers, all eyes remain on the IPU’s next move and whether Natasha’s case will trigger broader discussions on gender, power, and political accountability in Nigeria’s legislative chambers.
