Natasha May Face Six-Month Suspension As Senate Committee Makes Recommendation
The Senate is considering a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. However, a Federal High Court has issued an interim order halting any disciplinary proceedings against her until further judicial review.
Despite this legal intervention, the Senate Committee on Ethics has recommended her suspension. The situation remains contentious, with Akpoti-Uduaghan obtaining a court injunction to prevent her suspension or victimization.
This follows investigations from the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct, which cited her for total violation of Senate rules.
According to reports in the Channel the committee’s recommendation read by its Chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen, her suspension will take effect from March 6, 2025.
It also recommended that her office will be locked, and she will be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises during the suspension period, her salaries and those of her legislative aides will be withdrawn.
She will be prohibited from representing Nigeria in any official capacity as a senator of the Federal Republic during the suspension. The Kogi Central lawmaker may also submit a written apology for the Senate to review her suspension, according to recommendations by the committee.
The Senate is expected to vote on the recommendation, which, if upheld would effectively strip Senator Natasha of all legislative privileges for the duration of her suspension.
