Adaramodu: Senate Won’t Be Dragged into ‘Content Creation’ Over Akpoti’s Return

The Nigerian Senate has dismissed the attempted return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to plenary as “skit making,” saying the red chamber will not be dragged into what it described as “political theatrics.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended in May for six months after accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment. On Tuesday, she attempted to resume legislative duties, citing a federal high court ruling in Abuja.

However, she was denied entry into the national assembly complex.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Yemi Adaramodu, chairman of the Senate committee on media and public affairs, said the Senate is focused on its legislative duties, not drama.

“The national assembly at large has a lot of roles to play. We are legislators and lawmakers, not spectators to be watching skit-making and content creation,” Adaramodu said.

“Initially, I said all these episodes and sagas are all about content creation. Now that the content has been created, it’s degenerating into a season film.”

Adaramodu said the court ruling Akpoti cited did not invalidate her suspension. “It is baffling that someone would appeal a court order and still try to enforce it as if it were final.”

He also criticised her approach. “If you are coming to the national assembly with a mob… carrying placards, chanting war songs, there’s no way the national assembly will allow you in.”

The Senate maintains that until a competent court declares her suspension unconstitutional, it stands.