ALLEGATIONS of political victimisation and gender bias have trailed the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Nigerian Senate. However, the Senate maintains that her six-month suspension was a result of “gross misconduct” and violations of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended), not linked to allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The suspension stemmed from a report by the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges, which cited multiple infractions. These included refusal to occupy her designated seat during plenary, speaking without recognition from the presiding officer, engaging in disruptive behaviour, making abusive remarks against Senate leadership, and defying summons from the Ethics and Privileges Committee.
Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, stated, “Let it be unequivocally stated that Senator Uduaghan was suspended solely for her persistent acts of misconduct, blatant disregard for the provisions of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended), and gross indiscipline—nothing more, nothing less.”
The controversy escalated when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan took her case to the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Conference, accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment and claiming her suspension was retaliatory. However, the Senate, in a letter presented by Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, firmly denied this narrative.
The letter stated, “Senator Natasha-Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for gross misconduct and unruly behaviour and not as a result of allegations of sexual harassment or assault.” It further clarified that her petition on sexual harassment was “rightfully discountenanced” for failing to follow due process.
The Explainer gathered that this is not the first time such disciplinary actions have occurred in Nigeria’s legislative history.
In 2017, Senator Ali Ndume was suspended for six months for allegedly making false accusations against Senate President Bukola Saraki and Senator Dino Melaye. The Federal High Court in Abuja later declared the suspension illegal and ordered Ndume’s reinstatement. The case was widely covered in the Nigerian media, with reports such as: Punch: Court orders Ndume’s reinstatement, knocks Senate over suspension,
Political analysts argue that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension raises broader questions about gender dynamics in Nigerian politics. While the Senate insists on maintaining order and discipline, critics see the move as an attempt to silence dissent, especially from female lawmakers advocating for accountability and women’s rights.
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According to data from the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), following the 2019 legislative elections, the Nigerian Senate comprised 7.34% women, with 8 female senators out of 109 members. This underrepresentation has raised concerns that disciplinary actions against female lawmakers may discourage other women from participating in politics.
Speaking at the UN forum, Akpoti-Uduaghan said, “Such allegations demand a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation. We must ensure fairness and justice for all individuals involved.”
The Explainer also reported that the IPU has pledged to investigate the matter further, ensuring that both sides are heard. However, the Senate has urged media organisations to “correct these misrepresentations” and avoid spreading “falsehoods that undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s legislative process.”
With Nigeria’s political space increasingly scrutinised for gender equality and accountability, this case has sparked intense debate on the balance between parliamentary discipline and the protection of fundamental rights.
Whether this suspension is purely disciplinary or politically motivated remains a subject of intense national and international attention.
