The Chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs, Kafilat Ogbara, read the Nigerian Senate’s official response to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s complaint to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). The response, sent by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, aimed to clarify the circumstances surrounding Senator Natasha’s suspension.
Senator Natasha had taken her grievance to the IPU, seeking international intervention over what she described as an unjust decision against her. After hearing her concerns, the IPU assured her that it would take appropriate steps to address the issue after reviewing the position of the Nigerian Senate.
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In its response, the Senate firmly denied claims that the suspension was linked to allegations of sexual harassment or assault. The letter, read by Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, who was attending the IPU event as Nigeria’s official representative, stated:
*”Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for gross misconduct and unruly behavior, not due to allegations of sexual harassment or assault. The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria strongly refutes the false narrative being circulated by certain media organizations regarding her six-month suspension. It should be made clear that her suspension was based entirely on her repeated misconduct and disregard for the Senate Standing Orders.”*
Despite reading the Senate’s position, Honorable Ogbara called for a thorough investigation into the allegations Senator Natasha made against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She emphasized that all proper procedures were followed before the decision to suspend her was made.
The suspension of Senator Natasha last week has sparked widespread debate across the country. She had initially submitted a petition accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment, but the Senate dismissed it. Even after submitting a second petition, she was suspended.
In response, Senator Natasha has vowed to continue her fight against what she calls an “injustice.” Meanwhile, Senate President Akpabio has denied the allegations, insisting that he has never engaged in any form of assault against women.
The tension between the two lawmakers escalated on February 20, 2025, following a dispute over the reassignment of her seat during plenary. However, their differences date back to July 2024, when Akpabio reprimanded her for alleged misconduct, stating that the Senate is *”not a nightclub where anyone can speak anyhow.”* He later apologized for the remark.
