By: Adeosun Ewatomi
The embattled senator representing Kogi central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has described her suspension from the senate as unjust. Natasha was suspended by the senate for "gross misconduct" following a heated argument with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangement on February 20. Natasha later accused Akpabio of sexually harassing her, an allegation which Akpabio denied.
However, the senate committee on ethics, privileges, and public petitions dismissed her petition on procedural grounds. Despite this, the lawmaker asserted that her colleagues' actions would not diminish her legitimacy as a senator. In a social media post, Natasha stated that "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."
She further expressed that "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." Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan remains steadfast in her position as a senator, despite the challenges she has faced.