“This injustice will not be sustained” – Senator Natasha Akpoti reacts to her 6-month suspension

Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has reacted defiantly to the six-month suspension imposed on her by the Nigerian Senate, insisting that the decision was unjust.

Senator Natasha’s Reaction

• As lawmakers voted on her suspension, she boldly declared:
  👉🏽 “This injustice will not be sustained.”
• Her microphone was subsequently turned off, preventing further comments.

Background on the Suspension

The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions recommended her suspension over:

• Her sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
• Her refusal to move to a new Senate seat, citing Order 10 of the Senate Standing Rules.

Despite the controversy, the Senate voted unanimously to suspend her for six months, during which:

• Her salary and security details will be withdrawn.
• She is barred from the National Assembly premises.
• Her office will remain sealed.

The Harassment Allegations

• Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, stating that he was frustrating her politically because she refused to sleep with him.
• She initially filed a petition against Akpabio, which was dismissed over procedural violations.
• On March 6, 2025, she resubmitted the petition, escalating tensions in the Senate.

Akpabio’s Response

• The Senate President has denied the allegations, insisting he has never harassed any woman.

What’s Next?

Senator Natasha’s suspension raises concerns about political accountability, gender equality, and internal Senate conflicts. With her vowing to fight back, this political battle is far from over.