Senate President Godswill Akpabio has accused Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of misrepresenting facts and embarrassing the Nigerian Senate on the international stage.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended for six months over alleged breaches of Senate rules, had taken her case to the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Conference in New York, where she accused Akpabio of victimisation, sexual harassment, and abuse of power.
During Thursday’s Senate plenary, Akpabio denounced Natasha’s claims, stating that she had presented a misleading narrative to the global audience.
Akpabio: “She Misled the International Community”
Addressing fellow lawmakers, Akpabio expressed his disappointment, saying:
[blockquote style=”blockquote_style2″ align=”aligncenter” textcolor=”#000000″ background=”#ffffff” bordercolor = “#e80c0c”]I am aware that she distorted the facts and globalized the matter, embarrassing the Senate by giving a different narrative.[/blockquote]
He also commended federal lawmaker Kafilat Ogbara for clarifying the issue to the international media, asserting that Senator Natasha’s claims were inconsistent with actual Senate proceedings.
Senator Natasha’s Legal & International Moves
Akpabio revealed that Senator Natasha initially raised a petition in the Senate but later bypassed internal investigations. Instead, she took the matter to court and later escalated it to the international community, further intensifying political tensions.
[blockquote style=”blockquote_style2″ align=”aligncenter” textcolor=”#000000″ background=”#ffffff” bordercolor = “#e80c0c”]She took the matter to the Senate, refused to let us investigate, then went to court and later to the UN. This kind of action may discourage the appointment of women in key leadership roles,” Akpabio warned.[/blockquote]
Senate Stands Behind Akpabio
Following the heated debate, Akpabio received a vote of confidence from the Senate, reinforcing his leadership. He urged lawmakers to stay focused on governance and not be distracted by unnecessary political drama.
[blockquote style=”blockquote_style2″ align=”aligncenter” textcolor=”#000000″ background=”#ffffff” bordercolor = “#e80c0c”]Let us remain focused on our legislative duties and avoid distractions that hinder the Senate’s work,” he concluded.[/blockquote]
Political Fallout & Public Reactions
The Senate suspension of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan continues to spark mixed reactions across Nigeria, with political analysts debating whether this is a case of political suppression or a justified disciplinary action.
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Conclusion
The clash between Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan highlights the growing tensions within the Nigerian Senate. As the controversy unfolds, Nigerians await further developments on whether Natasha will challenge her suspension or if political reconciliation is possible.
We have this so say;
[blockquote style=”blockquote_style1″ align=”alignleft” textcolor=”#E80C0C” background=”#fff”]In politics, perception often outweighs reality, but integrity remains the true measure of leadership.[/blockquote]
