Senate President Godswill Akpabio has criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, for allegedly misrepresenting the Senate and distorting facts in her international appeal against her suspension.
Following her six-month suspension for breaching Senate standing rules, Natasha took her case to the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Conference in New York on March 12, where she alleged that she was sexually harassed and victimized by Akpabio.
Her claims prompted a response from Tulia Ackson, President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), who assured that the matter would be reviewed.
Speaking at the plenary on March 13, Akpabio accused Natasha of deliberately misleading the international community with a false narrative about the Senate proceedings.
He praised House of Representatives member Kafilat Ogbara for countering Natasha’s claims and providing a clearer version of events to the international media.
“I am aware that she distorted the facts and globalized the matter, embarrassing the Senate by presenting a different narrative. I appreciate Hon. Kafilat for clarifying to the international media that what was presented was completely different from reality,” Akpabio stated.
Akpabio further explained that Natasha had initially brought her concerns to the Senate but later bypassed legislative procedures by taking the matter to court and appealing to the international community.
He expressed concern that such actions could discourage the appointment of women into key political positions in Nigeria.
Following his remarks, the Senate reaffirmed its vote of confidence in Akpabio, urging members to focus on their legislative duties and avoid distractions.
