Natasha and Akpbio

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has filed a contempt suit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other officials over her six-month suspension without pay. The suit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, also names the Clerk of the National Assembly and Senator Neda Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct.

On March 4, Justice Obiora Egwuatu had issued an order restraining the Senate Committee from investigating Akpoti-Uduaghan over alleged misconduct during the February 20 plenary session and subsequent referral on February 25. The court stated that any action taken while the suit was pending would be null and void. Despite this, the Senate suspended her on March 6.

Akpoti-Uduaghan argues that her suspension violates the court order served on the defendants on March 5. The court, through Form 48, warned Akpabio, Imasuen, and the Clerk of the National Assembly that defying the order could lead to contempt charges and imprisonment.

Amidst this legal battle, the Senate reaffirmed confidence in Akpabio’s leadership. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele emphasised that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was due to misconduct, not allegations of sexual harassment. He reiterated that the Senate had the constitutional right to regulate its procedures and maintain order.

Bamidele clarified that Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for defying Senate rules, including refusal to sit in her assigned seat and making abusive remarks. The Senate maintained that her suspension was necessary to uphold discipline and prevent legislative disorder.

Akpoti-Uduaghan escalated the matter by presenting her case at a United Nations forum, alleging political victimisation. She claimed that the suspension was a reprisal for rejecting Akpabio’s alleged advances and called for international intervention. She also criticised conditions imposed on her, such as withdrawal of security and salary cuts.

The Nigerian Senate defended its decision before the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), with House Committee Chair on Women Affairs, Kafilat Ogbara, dismissing claims of sexual harassment as the reason for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension. She called for a fair and transparent investigation while reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to gender equality.

Senator Solomon Adeola criticised Akpoti-Uduaghan for bypassing internal resolution mechanisms and resorting to litigation. He argued that the Senate had the constitutional authority to discipline its members. Adeola dismissed claims that female senators faced suppression, emphasising that all members were treated equally.

The controversy also drew a response from former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, who distanced himself from supporting Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations. He clarified that his intervention during plenary was based on procedural concerns rather than endorsing her claims.

Despite the ongoing legal battle and international attention, the Senate maintains that Akpoti-Uduaghan remains suspended unless she fulfils the conditions for reinstatement or secures a favourable court ruling. The upper chamber has urged media organisations to refrain from spreading misinformation and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s legislative process. {punch}