Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was recently suspended from the Nigerian Senate, has strongly denounced the action, calling it a violation of natural justice, fairness, and equity. Despite her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan is determined to continue serving her constituents, maintaining her stance as a legitimate representative in the Senate.
In a statement posted to her Facebook page on Thursday, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that her suspension does not diminish her role as an elected official. She stated, “Against the culture of silence, intimidation, and victim-shaming, my unjust suspension from the Nigerian Senate invalidates the principles of natural justice, fairness, and equity.”
The Senate had imposed a six-month suspension on the lawmaker without pay, citing a breach of its Standing Orders after Akpoti-Uduaghan made allegations of sexual harassment against a fellow senator—allegations that Senator Godswill Akpabio denied. The Senate further instructed that she should not present herself to the public as a senator during the suspension period.
Despite this, Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her commitment to her role and vowed to continue her work for her constituents. She declared, “The illegal suspension does not withdraw my legitimacy as a Federal Republic of Nigeria senator, and I will continue to serve my constituents and my country to the best of my ability until 2027… and beyond.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s statement highlights her resolve to fight against what she views as an unjust punishment, vowing to carry on her duties as a duly elected senator, despite the Senate’s decision.
