Former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Rowland Owie, has criticized the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, warning that the 10th Senate risks damaging its own credibility.
Owie condemned the decision to suspend the Kogi Central lawmaker, emphasizing that legislative impunity could set a dangerous precedent. He insisted that no senator should be arbitrarily denied their mandate.
“We are not in a Banana Republic. A senator remains a senator at all times, whether suspended or not. The 10th Senate must tread carefully to safeguard the integrity of the institution,” Owie stated.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension followed a heated confrontation on February 20, 2025, after she protested the reassignment of her Senate seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The situation escalated when she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment. While her initial petition was blocked, she later succeeded in having it referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
However, tensions rose further when she declined to appear before the Ethics Committee, citing a court order restraining the Senate from investigating her. Despite the legal restrictions, the Senate proceeded with disciplinary actions, ultimately suspending her for six months.
Owie stressed the need for due process, warning against undermining the Senate’s credibility. “The 10th Senate must be cautious to avoid destabilizing the Upper Chamber. Every issue raised must be thoroughly investigated—nothing should be swept under the carpet. Ideally, the Senate President should step aside to ensure an impartial investigation,” he said.
In response to her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan denounced the action as unjust, arguing that it contradicts the principles of natural justice, fairness, and equity.
“Against a culture of silence, intimidation, and victim-shaming, my unjust suspension undermines the core principles of justice. However, this illegal suspension does not erase my legitimacy as a senator. I remain committed to serving my constituents and my country with dedication until 2027 and beyond,” she asserted.
