The Senate Committee on Ethics has recommended a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following the controversy surrounding her sexual harassment allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In addition to the suspension, the committee advised that the Kogi Central senator issue a formal apology to the Senate for what it described as “disrespecting the institution.” It also proposed the withdrawal of her salary and security details for the duration of the suspension.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had resubmitted a sexual harassment petition against Akpabio during plenary, this time on behalf of her constituents, represented by Zubairu Yakubu. After confirming there were no legal impediments, Akpabio directed her to formally present the petition before the Senate at 12:38 PM.
The petition was subsequently referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), with instructions to report its findings within four weeks.
This latest development follows an earlier petition submitted by Akpoti-Uduaghan, which had generated significant debate.
During the session, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno North) raised a point of order, citing Senate Standing Order 40. He argued that the petition was sub judice due to an ongoing legal case involving Akpoti-Uduaghan and Ekaette Akpabio, the Senate President’s wife.
Monguno also contended that the petition should not be considered since Akpoti-Uduaghan had personally signed it.
The Ethics Committee’s recommendations now await further deliberation by the Senate.
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