The Nigerian Senate has formally addressed the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) regarding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, asserting that the disciplinary action was due to “gross misconduct” and not linked to her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
According to Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension resulted from violations of the Senate’s Standing Orders, including:
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Refusal to sit in her assigned seat
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Speaking without recognition
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Making abusive remarks against the Senate leadership
These actions were deemed “unparliamentary behaviour,” leading to her six-month suspension.
The Senate’s Ethics Committee reviewed Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Akpabio and dismissed them, citing procedural rule violations. Senate President Akpabio has denied any wrongdoing.
The suspension has attracted international scrutiny, prompting the IPU to investigate the circumstances surrounding the disciplinary action. In response, the Nigerian Senate communicated to the IPU that the suspension was solely based on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s conduct within the legislative chamber and unrelated to her harassment claims.
The Senate maintains that adherence to its rules and procedures is essential for maintaining order and decorum. The leadership has urged all members to conduct themselves in accordance with established protocols to ensure the effective functioning of the legislative body.
This development underscores the challenges faced within legislative environments, particularly concerning allegations of misconduct and the enforcement of disciplinary measures.
For a detailed report on the IPU’s investigation into Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, you can watch the following video:
