The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a stern warning to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, threatening legal action if the Senate does not reverse its controversial suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a statement on Sunday, SERAP condemned the six-month suspension, calling it “patently unlawful” and a violation of the senator’s constitutional and international rights to freedom of expression.
Suspension Sparks Outrage
The Nigerian Senate, on March 6, 2025, suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for allegedly violating Senate rules. The decision followed recommendations from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which accused her of bringing the presiding officer and the legislative body into public disrepute.
Despite attempts by some lawmakers to reduce the suspension to three months, the Senate upheld the six-month penalty through a majority vote. As part of the disciplinary measures, Akpoti-Uduaghan will lose her salary, allowances, and security details during the suspension.
SERAP Demands Immediate Reinstatement
In an open letter dated March 8, 2025, and signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP called for the senator’s immediate reinstatement and a review of parliamentary procedures that infringe on lawmakers’ rights.
“No one should ever be punished for ‘speaking without permission.’ Being a senator does not strip Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan of her fundamental human rights,” SERAP stated.
The organization stressed that the suspension appears to be a pretext to suppress dissent, warning that if the decision is not reversed within 48 hours, it will initiate legal proceedings against Akpabio and the Senate.
Political Fallout and Allegations Against Akpabio
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension comes amid an escalating feud with Akpabio. The controversy intensified on February 28, 2025, when she accused the Senate President of making inappropriate advances toward her during a visit to his residence in December 2023.
She alleged that while attending Akpabio’s birthday celebration in Akwa Ibom, he made inappropriate remarks and gestures, prompting her to file a defamation lawsuit against him.
Her refusal to switch Senate seats following a reshuffle involving opposition members further fueled tensions, ultimately leading to her suspension.
Mixed Reactions to Senate’s Decision
The suspension has sparked widespread debate, with some lawmakers arguing it enforces discipline, while others warn it sets a dangerous precedent for silencing dissent.
As SERAP pushes for legal action, the case is shaping up to be a major test of legislative accountability and free speech in Nigeria’s democracy.
