Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has refuted Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims regarding the recent seating reassignment in the Senate.
Senator Natasha, who represents Kogi Central, stirred controversy in the Red Chamber after the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, reassigned her seat. She refused to move to her newly assigned seat and later attempted to speak during plenary but was denied recognition for not addressing the Senate from her designated spot.
Frustrated, she raised her voice, accusing Akpabio of denying her legislative privileges. The Senate later voted unanimously to refer her to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for disciplinary review.
Natasha Alleges Intimidation and Harassment
Appearing on Arise TV on Friday, February 28, 2025, Natasha claimed that the seating reassignment was a deliberate move to frustrate her legislative duties. She further accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, alleging that the Senate President had twice demanded an intimate relationship from her.
Kingibe Dismisses Natasha’s Claims
Speaking on Arise TV, Senator Kingibe dismissed Natasha’s complaints, stating that she does not follow Senate rules. She explained that other lawmakers, including men and women, also had their seats moved that day, but they complied.
“Silence is golden, especially when one of us is not following the rules. As women, we did not want to come out publicly to say anything negative about her. We were hoping this would blow over, as many things do,” Kingibe said.
She emphasized that the Senate is not a place for trivial disputes, adding that the chamber has become more gender-inclusive over time.
“The Senate is not gender-friendly, but it has improved. When we raise concerns, the Senate President takes corrective action. There’s hardly anything done to women that hasn’t been done to male senators as well.”
Kingibe urged women in politics to adhere to institutional rules, stating that following established procedures is essential for effective representation.
