The Senate Committee on Ethics has recommended a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following her sexual harassment allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The committee also advised that the Kogi Central senator tender an apology to the Senate for “disrespecting the institution.” Additionally, it proposed the withdrawal of her salary and security details throughout the suspension period.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier resubmitted a sexual harassment petition against Akpabio during plenary, this time on behalf of her constituents, led by Zubairu Yakubu. After confirming that there were no legal obstacles, Akpabio directed her to formally present the petition before the Senate at 12:38 PM.
The petition was subsequently referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), with a directive to report back within four weeks.
This development follows a similar petition Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted the previous day, which sparked controversy.
Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno North) had raised a point of order, citing Senate Standing Order 40, arguing that the matter was sub judice due to an ongoing court case between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Ekaette Akpabio, the Senate President’s wife.
He further contended that the petition should not be considered since Akpoti-Uduaghan had personally signed it.
