Senator Natasha Takes Suspension Battle to United Nations, Seeks Global Intervention – Watch Full Video
Suspended Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken her battle for justice to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) at the United Nations (UN) Assembly in New York. Speaking at the Women in Parliament Session, held during the IPU meeting, the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District called on global democratic institutions to intervene, claiming that her suspension from the National Assembly was unjust and politically motivated.
Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that her removal from legislative duties was a form of political revenge and a direct violation of democratic principles. Addressing the global forum, she made an emotional appeal, insisting that her suspension was unlawful and aimed at silencing her advocacy against injustice.
Why Was Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Suspended?
The Nigerian Senate suspended Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan after she allegedly violated the Senate’s standing orders. However, the senator maintains that she is being victimized for speaking against injustice within the legislative body.
Her suspension follows a public altercation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over a sitting arrangement issue. Shortly after, she appeared on a national television program, where she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment.
This incident further heightened political tensions, with the lawmaker facing backlash from her colleagues. She has since alleged that the Senate’s actions are part of a broader effort to silence female legislators who challenge the status quo.
Senator Natasha Raises Security Concerns After UN Speech
In a video obtained by Legit.ng, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was seen weeping while presenting her case at the UN Assembly. She also expressed concerns over her security, suggesting that she might be held against her will in New York for raising her voice on the issue at an international level.
Her appeal at the Inter-Parliamentary Union and United Nations signals an escalation of the dispute between her and the Nigerian Senate, drawing international attention to the crisis.
Petition Against Akpabio Rejected by Senate Ethics Committee
Prior to her suspension, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted a formal petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of misconduct. However, the Senate Committee on Ethics dismissed her petition, citing a lack of due process.
Following the committee’s decision, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was swiftly recommended for suspension, a move that has sparked mixed reactions from Nigerians and political analysts. Critics argue that the Senate president should step aside to allow for an independent investigation into the allegations.
Senate President Akpabio Denies Allegations
Amid mounting pressure, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has strongly denied the sexual harassment allegations. Speaking at an event marking International Women’s Day, he dismissed Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims, stating that her past allegations against other political figures had all been dismissed for lack of evidence.
Akpabio also criticized her approach, stating that her allegations have only served to disrupt the activities of the 10th Senate, rather than foster constructive dialogue.
Public Reaction and Implications for Nigeria’s Political Landscape
The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and her decision to seek international intervention have deepened divisions within Nigeria’s political landscape.
While some Nigerians support her call for justice, others believe she should have exhausted all domestic avenues before taking the matter to the United Nations. Political analysts predict that her move could set a precedent for future political disputes involving lawmakers in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has resubmitted her petition against Akpabio, hoping for a different outcome. Whether this will lead to a fair and transparent investigation remains to be seen.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has evolved into an international issue, drawing the attention of global democratic institutions. As tensions escalate, all eyes are now on the Nigerian Senate and how it handles this high-profile controversy.
Will the Senate reconsider its decision, or will the intervention of international organizations influence a different outcome? Only time will tell.
