The battle over Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has exploded again as the PDP and top lawyers accused the Senate of silencing opposition and denying citizens representation.
On Tuesday, a letter from the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, informed Natasha that her six-month suspension—which began on March 6—remains in force until the Court of Appeal rules on her case.
“The matter remains sub judice… no action can be taken until the judicial process is concluded,” the letter stated.
This shocked Natasha, who had prepared to return when the Senate reconvenes on September 23, believing her punishment had ended.
Why Natasha Was Suspended
- Suspended on March 6 after being accused of insubordination for refusing to leave her seat.
- Lost salary, aides, and office privileges.
- Claims the suspension was politically motivated, linking it to her petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment—allegations dismissed by the Senate.
- Tried to force her way back in July, but security stopped her as supporters protested.
PDP’s Reaction
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemned the Senate’s action, calling it:
- “A calculated attempt to silence opposition voices.”
- “A clear and present danger to democracy.”
PDP accused Akpabio of “harassment against women” and urged international bodies to intervene, demanding Natasha’s immediate reinstatement.
Senior Lawyers Back Natasha
Top Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) slammed the Senate for acting unconstitutionally:
- Adedayo Adedeji (SAN): Natasha has served her suspension. Anything else denies Kogi Central representation.
- Wale Balogun (SAN): “Would Natasha remain suspended indefinitely just because her case drags on?”
- Paul Obi (SAN): Called it “overreaching and an overkill.”
- Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN): Warned that extending her suspension secretly was illegal and vindictive.
- Mike Ozekhome (SAN): Took a different view, saying both sides should continue fighting in court.
Rights Group Speaks Out
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) also blasted the Senate, saying:
- “There is no law in Nigeria preventing Natasha from resuming.”
- Blocking her return violates the Nigerian Constitution, the African Charter, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
- “Being a senator does not strip Natasha of her fundamental rights.”
The Bigger Picture
The fight has now become a test of:
- The Senate’s powers to discipline its members.
- Citizens’ rights to representation in government.
For Natasha, it’s about justice and political freedom. For the people of Kogi Central, it’s about having a voice in the Senate after six months of silence.
