Nigerian senate suspends female senator after accusing senate president of sexual harassment

Alongside her suspension, all official benefits and Senate properties in her possession have been withdrawn.

Why was she suspended?

The controversy began on February 20, 2025, when Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the Senate chamber to find her seat reassigned and her nameplate removed. Protesting the move, she engaged in a heated exchange with Akpabio, which escalated into a formal petition on March 5, accusing him of misconduct.

Despite a court order on March 6 barring the Senate from investigating her for alleged misconduct, the legislative body went ahead with the suspension.

The ruling by Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja had directed the Senate to justify its probe within 72 hours, but the order was ignored.

Senate dismisses allegations, demands apology

Dismissing her sexual harassment claims as “frivolous,” the Senate demanded that Akpoti-Uduaghan issue a written apology to Akpabio.

Meanwhile, Atai Afe Annang, a sociopolitical group from Akpabio’s home state, Akwa Ibom, called for her recall from the Senate, arguing that her actions were inappropriate.

Obong Blaise Awakama, the group’s leader, stated, "We are not satisfied with just a suspension. She should be properly advised, reoriented, or even replaced. No female senator should be used as a tool to defame him. If this is an organized political plot to remove him, we won’t stand idly by.”

Akpabio's denial

Akpabio has firmly denied the allegations, stating, “Since February 20, I have received numerous calls from Nigerians regarding this issue. I want to make it clear that I have never sexually harassed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan,” he said at the start of Wednesday’s plenary session.

Legal experts condemn suspension

Legal analysts have slammed the Senate’s decision, calling it unconstitutional and illegal. They argue that suspending an elected lawmaker for exercising her right to free speech and petition sets a dangerous precedent and disregards judicial authority.

The suspension has sparked widespread debate on gender discrimination, legislative overreach, and political suppression in Nigeria’s democracy.