Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has vehemently rejected her six-month suspension from the Senate, describing it as an illegal move aimed at silencing her. The Kogi Central senator, who was suspended on Thursday following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, declared that she remains a duly elected representative and will continue to serve her constituents.
In a strongly worded statement, Natasha condemned the Senate’s decision, stating that it violates principles of natural justice, fairness, and equity.
“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 illegal suspension does not withdraw my legitimacy as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I will continue to use my duly elected position to serve my constituents and country to the best of my ability till 2027 and beyond,” she asserted.
Her suspension came after a recommendation by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, leading to the withdrawal of her salary, security details, and barring her from accessing the National Assembly premises.
The move has sparked outrage among her supporters, civil society groups, and women’s rights organizations, who accuse the Senate of punishing her for speaking out against misconduct at the highest level of government. As the controversy rages on, Natasha’s defiance signals that this battle is far from over.
