From Victor Osula, Abuja
Tensions flared at Senate plenary on Thursday, as dispute over seating arrangements led to a heated exchange between the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the senate leadership.
The commotion began after Natasha voiced her displeasure at the change of her seat.
Raising a point of order under Senate rule book, the Chief Whip, Tahir Monguno, justified the reassignment of seats. He explained that the changes were intended to close gaps left by two defecting opposition senators who joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from the minority party.
Monguno further emphasised that failure by Natasha to comply with the new seating arrangement could lead to penalties, including the possibility of being barred from participating in discussions on the Senate floor.
However, when Senator Natasha raised her hand to speak, she was denied recognition by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, because she was not addressing the chamber from her newly assigned seat.
Refusing to back down, Senator Natasha raised her voice in protest, directly confronting the Senate President.
“I don’t care if I am silenced. I am not afraid of you. You have denied me my privilege”, she said.
Efforts by Akpabio to eject her from the chamber was, however, de-escalated by other Senators who pleaded and calmed the situation.
Meanwhile, Akpabio has appealed to Steve Karimi, the Chairman of Senate Services, over the verbal attack from Natasha who accused the Ogun West Senator of relocating her seat.
“I can see that you feel very hurt. You came under Order 10 of our rules. This is the Nigerian Senate. The matter, according to our rules, is to be referred to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges. I appeal that we do not go further. The matter will be dealt with at the appropriate time”, Akpabio said.
