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The ongoing controversy between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has gripped Nigeria’s political landscape, sparking debates about parliamentary decorum, gender dynamics, and allegations of misconduct. The Nigerian Senate's decision to pass a vote of confidence in Akpabio amid this escalating dispute has further intensified public scrutiny and raised questions about institutional integrity, fairness, and the handling of serious allegations. Below is a detailed report on the controversy and the Senate's response as of March 13, 2025.

Senate’s Response: Vote of Confidence and Disciplinary Action

The Senate addressed the controversy in several plenary sessions, culminating in significant resolutions:

February 25, 2025: Referral to Ethics Committee

Following Natasha’s initial outburst, Senate Spokesperson Senator Yemi Adaramodu raised a point of order, condemning her conduct as a breach of decorum that tarnished the Senate’s image. The Senate unanimously voted to refer the matter to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen, for investigation. The committee was tasked with reporting back within two to three weeks.

Vote of Confidence in Akpabio

On multiple occasions, the Senate rallied behind Akpabio. A notable instance occurred on February 25, 2025, when senators passed a vote of confidence in his leadership, emphasizing their commitment to protecting the institution’s integrity. This was reaffirmed on March 13, 2025, amid the controversy’s peak, signaling unified support for Akpabio despite Natasha’s allegations. Earlier, on October 17, 2024, a similar vote had been passed in response to unrelated impeachment rumors, indicating a pattern of senatorial backing for Akpabio.

March 6, 2025: Natasha’s Suspension

The Ethics Committee dismissed Natasha’s sexual harassment petition against Akpabio on March 5, 2025, labeling it “dead on arrival” due to procedural irregularities. The following day, the committee recommended a six-month suspension for Natasha, citing her earlier disruptive behavior during the seat dispute as "grossly disorderly." Despite some senators advocating for a shorter three-month suspension, the majority upheld the six-month term via a voice vote presided over by Akpabio. The suspension barred Natasha from the National Assembly premises, locked her office, and withheld her salary and aides’ payments, contingent on a formal apology for reconsideration.

Natasha decried the suspension as “unjust,” arguing it violated principles of fairness and natural justice. She vowed to continue serving her constituents outside the Senate chamber until her term ends in 2027.

Public and Political Reactions

The controversy has polarized opinions across Nigeria:

Support for Natasha: Feminist groups, some civil society organizations, and segments of the public hailed Natasha’s courage in confronting alleged abuse of power. Protests in Abuja saw demonstrators chanting “Akpabio must go,” demanding a transparent investigation into her harassment claims. Figures like former Senate President Bukola Saraki called for an unbiased probe to protect the Senate’s integrity, emphasizing the need to avoid perceptions of gender bias or harassment cover-ups.

Support for Akpabio: Akpabio’s defenders, including many senators, argued that Natasha’s actions undermined parliamentary order. They cited examples of other senators (e.g., Adamu Aliero, Aminu Tambuwal) who accepted seat changes without protest, framing her resistance as unwarranted. Critics of Natasha, including some X users, questioned the timing and credibility of her harassment claims, noting the lack of immediate corroboration and her delay in raising them publicly.

Broader Implications: The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and others expressed concern over the Senate’s deteriorating public image, urging an independent investigation to restore trust. The controversy also reignited debates about women’s participation in Nigerian politics, with only 4 of 109 senators being female—far below the 35% affirmative action target.

Key Issues and Unresolved Questions

Procedural Fairness: Critics argue that Akpabio’s role in presiding over Natasha’s suspension, despite being the accused, represents a conflict of interest. The dismissal of her harassment petition on procedural grounds, without substantive investigation, has fueled perceptions of bias.

Evidence and Credibility: Natasha’s allegations lack concrete evidence beyond her testimony, raising questions about substantiation. Conversely, Akpabio’s camp has not provided a detailed rebuttal, leaving the truth contested.

Institutional Integrity: The Senate’s swift disciplinary action against Natasha, contrasted with its reluctance to probe Akpabio, has led to accusations of prioritizing individual protection over institutional accountability.

Conclusion

As of March 13, 2025, the Akpabio/Natasha controversy remains a flashpoint in Nigerian politics. The Senate’s vote of confidence in Akpabio underscores his entrenched support within the chamber, while Natasha’s suspension and allegations have cast a shadow over its credibility. The lack of an independent investigation into the harassment claims continues to stoke public discontent, with calls for transparency growing louder. Whether this saga will prompt systemic reforms or fade into political noise depends on the actions of the Senate and the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic institutions in addressing such disputes fairly and decisively. For now, the controversy serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing women in politics and the delicate balance between power, procedure, and justice in Nigeria’s legislative sphere.