Natasha Resumes Senate Duties, Labels Akpabio “Dictator”
Reported By David Joshua | Sele Media Africa
Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, resumed her duties at the National Assembly on Tuesday after a six‑month suspension. Upon her return, she didn’t mince words — calling Senate President Godswill Akpabio a “dictator.” [1]
The Break & Return
• Akpoti was suspended on March 6, 2025, over alleged violations of the Senate’s standing orders including speaking out of turn, refusing to sit in her assigned seat, and making remarks deemed abusive. [2]
• Her office in the Senate complex had been sealed during the suspension. Today, it was officially unsealed — marking her dramatic return. [3]
Her Accusations & Statement
When asked about her suspension, Akpoti declared it illegal and unjust, rejecting any requirement to apologize to Senate leadership. She accused Akpabio of treating her “like a domestic servant” and running the Senate like his private house. [3]
“Senator Akpabio is not more of a senator than I am … He treated me as if I was his servant or domestic staff in his house. … We cannot have a National Assembly run like a private estate.” — Akpoti‑Uduaghan [4]Context & Implications
• Civil society groups, constituents, and media have questioned the suspension, citing concerns over democratic norms and female representation in government. [5]
• Her return is seen as a symbolic win for rule of law and institutional oversight. Many see it as a test case for how dissent and power are managed in Nigeria’s political system. [4]
What Happens Next?
• Observers will be watching how Senate President Akpabio and Senate leadership respond — whether there are reconciliatory moves or further conflict.
• Legal dimensions remain unresolved: whether Akpoti will pursue redress for what she claims was an unjust suspension, and whether reforms in how conduct and discipline are handled in the Senate will follow.
Sele Media Africa will continue to monitor developments and provide updates.
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