Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Escalates Suspension Battle, Reports Akpabio to Inter-Parliamentary Union

The crisis rocking the Nigerian Senate has taken a new dimension as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan took her case to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

The embattled senator, who represents Kogi Central, is seeking global intervention after her controversial suspension from the Senate.

Natasha claims her six-month suspension, orchestrated by Senate President Akpabio, is politically motivated and an abuse of legislative power. She has now taken the matter to an international platform, raising concerns about gender-based political victimization, and parliamentary ethics in Nigeria.

In her latest move, Natasha has taken her fight to the IPU, an international body that promotes democratic governance and human rights among parliaments worldwide.

Speaking at the IPU’s Women in Parliament session at the UN headquarters, she called for justice and accountability, claiming that her suspension exemplifies how female politicians in Nigeria are suppressed.

She also expressed fears for her safety, alleging that powerful figures in Nigeria might seek to detain or intimidate her for speaking out at the global event.

The crisis began in late February 2025 when Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of making inappropriate advances toward her during a private visit to his residence in December 2023.

She alleged that Akpabio made unwarranted remarks and gestures that she considered inappropriate. The revelation sparked outrage, with many calling for an independent investigation.

However, the Senate leadership swiftly moved against her, citing violations of the chamber’s rules. On March 6, 2025, the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions recommended her suspension, which was immediately enforced.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele later stated that the suspension was due to her alleged misconduct, not her claims against Akpabio.

Natasha strongly resisted the suspension, calling it unconstitutional and a ploy to silence her. She insists she remains a serving senator despite the decision, arguing that the Senate’s action violates principles of natural justice.

The Kogi Central lawmaker continued engaging with the public and the media, even after the suspension. She vowed to challenge the suspension through every legal and political means. She also accused the Senate leadership of attempting to use institutional power to suppress dissent and protect powerful figures from scrutiny.

The fallout from this saga is obviously far from over. While the Senate remains firm on its decision, pressure is mounting for an independent review of the circumstances surrounding her suspension.

The international community’s response, particularly from the IPU, could shape the next phase of the battle. If the IPU or other global bodies intervene, it may force the Nigerian Senate to revisit its decision, potentially leading to legal or political consequences for those involved.

As the crisis continues, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s case is becoming a litmus test for Nigeria’s commitment to democratic principles, gender equity, and the rule of law in its legislative institutions.