Senator Natasha-Uduaghan has been suspended by the Nigerian Senate.
The suspension was based on a report submitted by the chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to the Committee of the Whole. The report cited multiple violations of the Senate’s Rules and Orders.
Senator Natacha-Uduaghan has been suspended by the Nigerian Senate.
Her suspension, which took effect on Thursday will last for six months due to the controversy surrounding allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The decision was based on a report submitted by the chairman of the Senate Commitee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to the Committee of the Whole. The report cited multiple violations of the Senate’s Rules and Orders.
Senator Imasuen Neda Bernards, representing Edo South Senatorial District and chairing the committee, stated that an investigation was conducted on Wednesday. During the probe, the female senator was given an opportunity to present her side of the story.
Summarizing the committee’s investigative hearing, he mentioned that testimonies were reviewed to verify the validity of the allegations.
Additionally, Senator Neda recalled that during a session last Wednesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan disrupted proceedings by refusing to take her assigned seat and engaging in a heated exchange which was deemed a violation of the Senator’s Rules and Orders.
Senator Raphael Adeyemi Adaramodu testified before the panel on Wednesday regarding his petition against Senator Nastasha-Uduaghan, describing the incident as an unfortunate development.
The committee chairman emphasized that Senator Natasha was officially invited for an investigation following the referral of a petition against her to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Folorunsho representing Ondo South Senatorial District, voiced concerns over Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s conduct. He stressed that the integrity of the senate as an institution must be safeguarded at all costs.
Jimoh stated:
“This institution is not about an individual. We have rules to regulate our activities.
“If we breach our own rules, the executive will not come here to enforce them, and I must commend the committee for the succinct report to the Senate.”
Additionally, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno referenced constitutional provisions, asserting that“it is only in the animal kingdom that there are no rules and regulations,” insisting that the Senate will outlive everyone; hence, the institution’s rules must be protected.
Senator Bassey Akpan Etim expressed disappointment over the events of February 20, 2025, describing the shouting and commotion in the Senate chamber. He acknowledged the concerns raised and agreed with the issues outlined in the report.
Senator Minority Leader Abba Moro appealed for leniency, advocating for a reduced penalty. He stated that his plea reflected the stance of PDP senators. Moro recommended a three month suspension believing it was sufficient for the senator to acknowledge and correct her mistakes. He also emphasized that since Nigerians were watching, decorum should be maintained in senate.
During the debate, contributions came from both the majority and minority parties. Senator President Godswill Akpabio commented on the matter, saying “The Senator we are talking about is the wife of my very close friend and brother.
“On the day of her marriage, I slept in their house in the year 2020, and when I was to leave, I missed my flight at Obajana Airstrip and I slept again at Dangote Cement,”
The suspension for six months was sustained by the Senate President after a voice vote.
Part of the resolutions include that she will surrender all National Assembly properties, her security details will be withdrawn, and the Sergeant-at-Arms will seal her office immediately so that she will not have access to it.
