Nigerian lawmakers have suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Uduaghan first made the claims during an interview last Friday, sparking nationwide debates. However, after dismissing her petition on procedural grounds, the Senate ethics committee recommended her suspension, arguing that she had tarnished the reputation of the National Assembly.
While some senators pushed for a three-month suspension instead, the majority upheld the committee’s recommendation of six months.
Public Outrage and Calls for Investigation
Women’s rights activists and advocacy groups have condemned the decision. Hadiza Ado, founder of the Women and Children Initiative, described it as a “sad day for Nigerian women.” She pointed out that with only four female senators in the 109-member Senate, Uduaghan’s suspension was a setback for gender representation in Nigerian politics.
On social media, many Nigerians criticized the move, calling it an act of oppression and demanding a fair probe into the senator’s allegations.
Protesters Take to the Streets
On Wednesday, tensions escalated as two groups of protesters gathered at the National Assembly in Abuja—one side chanting in support of Akpabio, while the other demanded his resignation, shouting “Akpabio must go.”
Despite her suspension, Uduaghan remains defiant, calling it “an injustice that will not be sustained.” She vowed to continue her “pursuit for justice” over how she has been treated.
During her suspension, she will be denied access to the National Assembly, and her office will remain locked.
With mounting pressure from rights groups and the public, many are now calling for a thorough and transparent investigation into her allegations.
Armenian Dram
Ghana Cedi
Gambian Dalasi
Guinea Franc
Nigerian Naira
CFA Franc BEAC
