Senate suspends Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months

The Senate has suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, for six months, effective March 6, 2025, over alleged misconduct and violation of Senate rules 2023 (as amended).

The decision for her suspension was taken following a recommendation by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen.

While presenting the committee’s recommendation before the house this morning, Senator Imasuen said Akpoti-Uduaghan failed to adhere to Senate rules and also disregarded the committee by refusing to honour its invitation.

Reading the committee’s recommendations, Senator Imasuen stated,

“One, that the Senate do suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months for her total violation of Senate standing rules, bringing the presiding officer and the entire Senate to public opprobrium.

Two, that for the Senate to consider lifting or reducing the duration of the suspension, Senator Natasha Uduaghan shall submit a written apology to the Senate before reconsideration.

Three, that the Senate suspend Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan with effect from March 6, 2025, from all legislative activities.

Four, that her office be locked up for the duration of her suspension and that she hand over all Senate properties in her possession to the Clerk of the National Assembly.

Five, that for the duration of her suspension, she must not be seen within the vicinity of the Senate or the National Assembly, including her staff.

Six, that her salaries and allowances, including those of her legislative aides, be suspended, and that all security details assigned to her be withdrawn for the period of her suspension.

Seven, that during her suspension, she be barred from representing herself locally and internationally as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

After a lengthy debate, the Senators adopted the recommendations through a voice vote with a slight amendment to the 6th recommendation, allowing Senator Natasha’s aides to receive their salaries and allowances in order not to suffer unduly.

Senator Natasha briefly interrupted the proceedings, saying the injustice against her won’t be sustained. She was thereafter escorted out of the chamber.

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