The Nigerian Senate has handed a six-month suspension to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.
This decision was made after a majority vote, aligning with the recommendations of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct.
During the plenary session, Akpoti-Uduaghan was denied the opportunity to speak before Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for a vote.
The Senate also voted against reconsidering the suspension until the six-month period elapses or Akpoti-Uduaghan apologizes.
As part of the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s office will be locked, and she will be barred from accessing the National Assembly’s premises.
Her salaries and those of her legislative aides will also be suspended during this period.
To appeal the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan must submit a written apology to the Senate for violating its rules.
Senate Minority Leader Abba More endorsed the ethics committee report, stating that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions warranted disciplinary action, likening her to “a child” who needs correction.
He said, “As Nigerians, we have a tradition; if you beat your child with the right hand, you draw that child with the left hand.”
The suspension stems from a heated confrontation in the Senate last week, where Akpoti-Uduaghan protested the reassignment of her seat by Akpabio.
She had arrived at the session to find her nameplate removed and her seat reassigned, prompting her to challenge the move and accuse the Senate leadership of marginalizing her voice.
