The Nigerian Senate has formally responded to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) regarding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, clarifying that it was due to gross misconduct and not related to her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Senator Natasha had taken her case to the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Conference in New York, seeking international intervention over what she described as an injustice. In response, the IPU assured her that it would investigate the matter by hearing from both sides.
In a letter addressed to the IPU, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele explained the rationale behind Natasha’s suspension. The letter, read by Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, stated:
“Senator Natasha-Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for gross misconduct and unruly behavior, not due to allegations of sexual harassment or assault. The Senate firmly refutes the misinformation being spread by certain media outlets regarding her six-month suspension. Her removal was solely due to persistent acts of misconduct and disregard for Senate Standing Orders.”
Hon. Ogbara also called for a thorough investigation into Natasha’s allegations against Akpabio, while emphasizing that the Senate followed due process before her suspension.
The controversy began after Natasha accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, filing multiple petitions that were ultimately dismissed by the Senate before her suspension. Despite this, she has vowed to continue her fight against what she perceives as injustice.
Akpabio, on his part, denied the allegations, maintaining that he has never assaulted women. Their tense relationship dates back to at least July 2024, when Akpabio rebuked Natasha for alleged misconduct, stating that the Senate was “not a nightclub where anybody can talk anyhow.” He later apologized for the remark.
Her latest confrontation with the Senate President occurred on February 20, 2025, after her seat was changed during a plenary session—an incident that further escalated tensions leading to her suspension. The case continues to generate debate across the country.
