IPU Pledges Action on Suspension of Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduagha

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has vowed to address the concerns raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central following her suspension from Nigeria’s National Assembly.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended from the Senate on March 6 for “gross misconduct,” took her case to an IPU meeting at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Tuesday. The IPU, a global organization of national parliaments dedicated to promoting peace, democracy, and sustainable development, has committed to investigating the matter thoroughly.

At the meeting, Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed her suspension was a retaliatory act after she submitted a petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment. She argued that rather than allowing a fair investigation, she was silenced and penalized.

“Five days ago, on the 6th of March 2025, I was suspended as a senator illegally because I submitted a petition of sexual harassment against the president of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated before the IPU.

“I thought by submitting the petition, he would recuse himself and both of us would submit ourselves to the committee of ethics, privileges, and public petitions for a fair and transparent investigation. But unfortunately, I was silenced, and I was suspended for six months among many other stringent conditions, such as taking away my security, taking away all the official vehicles, and other items that were handed over to me as a senator.”

IPU President Tulia Ackson acknowledged Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims and assured that the organization would examine the issue impartially, ensuring that both sides are heard before any conclusions are drawn.

See Also

Jim Ovia retires as Zenith Bank Group Chairman 36 years after founding the institution

“I would like to say we have heard her concerns, and having heard her, it would have been an opportunity for all of us to understand more about what she has said,” Ackson remarked. “But because we listened only to her side, as an institution, we will be taking the concerns that have been raised, not only taking her side, but also giving a chance to listen to the other side, as it is a custom for IPU.”

Ackson emphasized that the IPU would conduct a comprehensive review of the situation and take the necessary steps in response. She also noted that another Nigerian delegate, Kafilat Ogbara, a member of the House of Representatives, had requested to speak on the matter but was unable to due to time constraints.