Senate Upholds Natasha’s Six-Month Suspension as Victor Umeh Reportedly Pushes for Vote of Confidence in Akpabio – Report

The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following a closed-door executive session held on Wednesday. The decision maintains the disciplinary action taken against the Kogi Central lawmaker after she publicly accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, a move deemed by the Senate to have violated its Standing Rules.

The suspension, which began on March 6, 2025, includes the withdrawal of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s salary, allowances, legislative aides’ entitlements, and security escorts, as recommended by the Senate Committee on Ethics and Public Petitions.

During the session, Senators Danjuma Goje and Abdul Ningi reportedly proposed the creation of a committee to revisit the matter and to also initiate a vote of confidence in the Senate President. However, sources within the chamber disclosed that Senator Adams Oshiomhole strongly opposed the move, warning that such a reversal would portray the Senate as lacking firmness.

Senator Victor Umeh of the Labour Party also expressed strong support for Akpabio, reportedly going a step further by proposing a formal Senate vote of confidence in his leadership. The suggestion aligned with Oshiomhole’s stance and ultimately influenced the Senate’s resolve to let the suspension stand.

The reaffirmation comes a day after Akpoti-Uduaghan took her grievances beyond the chamber, submitting a report of her suspension and her allegations against Akpabio to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).