A combined photo of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
By Victory Oghene
Baring any last minute change, the Senate will suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months for flouting Senate rules.
This is going by the recommendation of the Senate Committee on Ethics.
The committee, in its report on Thursday, also advised that the Kogi Central senator apologise to the Senate for “disrespecting the institution.” Additionally, it proposed the withdrawal of her salary and security details throughout the suspension period.
The controversy began when Akpoti-Uduaghan resubmitted a sexual harassment petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, this time on behalf of her constituents, led by Zubairu Yakubu. After confirming no legal barriers existed, Akpabio allowed her to formally present the petition before the Senate at 12:38 pm. It was then referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), with a directive to report back within four weeks.
This latest development follows a similar petition submitted by Akpoti-Uduaghan the previous day, which sparked controversy.
Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno North) had raised a point of order, citing Senate Standing Order 40, arguing that the matter was sub judice due to an ongoing court case between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Ekaette Akpabio, the Senate President’s wife.
He further contended that the petition should not be considered as Akpoti-Uduaghan had personally signed it.
The Senate is expected to deliberate on the committee’s recommendations.
