The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has pledged to investigate concerns raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was recently suspended from the Nigerian Senate.
Speaking at an IPU meeting held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, alleged that her March 6 suspension was politically motivated and linked to a sexual harassment petition she submitted against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
“Five days ago, on the 6th of March 2025, I was suspended as a senator illegally because I submitted a petition of sexual harassment against the president of the Nigerian senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio,” Akpoti-Uduaghan told the global parliamentary body.
She explained that instead of recusing himself and allowing an independent investigation into the allegations, Akpabio presided over proceedings that led to her six-month suspension.
“I thought by submitting the petition, he would recuse himself and both of us would submit ourselves to the committee of ethics, privileges, and public petitions for a fair and transparent investigation. But unfortunately, I was silenced, and I was suspended for six months, among many other stringent conditions, such as taking away my security, official vehicles, and ot.her entitlements as a senator,” she added.
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In response, Tulia Ackson, the president of the IPU, acknowledged Akpoti-Uduaghan’s concerns and assured that the matter would be examined thoroughly.
“We have heard her concerns,” Ackson said. “As an institution, the IPU will not only take into account her side but will also give a chance to listen to the other side, as is our custom. After doing so, we will take necessary steps.”
Ackson also noted that Kafilat Ogbara, a Nigerian member of the House of Representatives, had sought to speak on the matter but was unable to due to time constraints.
The IPU, a global organization that promotes parliamentary democracy, has now positioned itself to play a role in addressing Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations and the broader concerns regarding legislative fairness in Nigeria.
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