Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, has been suspended for six months by the Senate.
The decision was made following her protest on February 20, 2025, against the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Her suspension means she is barred from participating in any legislative activities of the 10th Senate during this period.
Before the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan had presented a petition on sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio. She later dismissed the Senate’s action, saying it was unfair and could not stand.
Legal experts have criticized the Senate’s move, saying it violates her rights and a court order.
News About Nigeria reports that a Federal High Court had earlier instructed the Senate not to proceed with its investigation against her.
As part of the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan has been ordered to vacate her office, return Senate property, and stay away from the National Assembly premises.
Her salaries and allowances, as well as those of her legislative aides, have been halted.
However, during the plenary session, Senator Orji Kalu proposed an amendment to allow her aides to continue receiving their salaries, arguing they should not suffer for an issue they were not involved in.
Despite appeals from Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro to reduce the suspension to three months, the Senate upheld the six-month penalty.
The Ethics Committee, which reviewed the case, accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of misconduct and defiance, stating that she had refused to appear before them despite being invited.
Her supporters argued that the suspension is politically motivated and an attempt to silence her.
Some legal professionals have pointed out that suspending an elected senator deprives her constituents of representation, which is against democratic principles.
In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to continue serving her constituents, insisting that her suspension does not strip her of her legitimacy as a senator.
