Senator Natasha’s Suspension Linked to Gross Misconduct, Not Sexual Harassment Claims – Senate Tells IPU.
The Nigerian Senate has clarified that the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was not connected to her sexual harassment claims against Senator Godswill Akpabio.
In a response to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the Senate emphasized that the suspension was a result of “gross misconduct” and not related to the allegations of sexual harassment made by the senator.
The IPU had earlier expressed concern about the suspension, with some suggesting that it might be linked to the accusations raised by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio.
However, the Senate firmly rejected this notion, stating that the suspension stemmed from other actions deemed inappropriate by the Senate leadership, which had been addressed in accordance with the rules and procedures of the legislative body.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had made headlines earlier this year when she accused Akpabio, the Senate President, of sexual harassment.
The claims have stirred public debate, with some calling for an investigation into the matter. Despite the controversy, the Senate’s clarification sought to separate the two issues, reinforcing that the suspension was for reasons not related to the sexual harassment allegations.
The clarification from the Senate aims to address concerns raised by the IPU and reaffirm that the suspension was in line with the Senate’s internal disciplinary processes.
The issue has sparked ongoing discussions about the treatment of lawmakers in the country, especially in light of the serious nature of the allegations made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
