From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Senate Committee on Public Conduct, Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions has recommended a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, over what it described as “unparliamentary conduct.”
The decision follows the referral of the lawmaker to the committee for disciplinary action after a heated exchange between her and Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary on February 20. The confrontation, which stemmed from a dispute over seating arrangements, led to widespread controversy.
Presenting the committee’s report at plenary on Thursday, Chairman of the panel, Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), stated that Natasha was found guilty of all allegations leveled against her.
The committee dismissed her claims of discrimination by Akpabio, ruling that her conduct violated Senate rules.
The panel, therefore, recommended a six-month suspension from all legislative activities, effective March 6, 2025. It also directed her to immediately return all Senate properties in her possession and prohibited her from entering or being near the legislative chamber during the suspension period. Additionally, the committee mandated her to issue a written apology over her allegations against Akpabio.
However, Natasha refused to appear before the committee on Wednesday, despite multiple summons.
Her legal team had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, securing an order restraining the committee from proceeding with any disciplinary action. Justice Obiora Egwuatu issued the ruling following an ex parte application filed by the senator.
With the court’s intervention, it remains uncertain whether the Senate will proceed with enforcing the suspension or await further judicial directives.
