Senate Leader Recounts Challenges During Natasha's Suspension
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has described the suspension of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as a major distraction that diverted attention from the Senate's legislative activities. Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central Senatorial District, noted that during that period, major news platforms focused on debates over the suspension rather than the laws and reforms the Senate was pursuing for national development.
He maintained that the period was unpleasant for the Senate leadership and the institution, as it cast a shadow over its reputation. The suspension occurred in March 2025 after the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of defying the Senate's seating arrangement and alleged misconduct during plenary on 20 February 2025.
Allegations and Controversy
Before the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan had accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, alleging he insinuated she should 'take care of him' for her motions to receive favourable consideration. The allegation generated controversy within Nigeria and internationally, casting the National Assembly in a negative light. She later reported the issue to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), where she spoke emotionally about being denied a fair hearing.
The controversy led to multiple court cases. Ekaette Akpabio, wife of the senate president, sued Akpoti-Uduaghan for damaging her husband's reputation. Akpabio also instituted legal action, while Akpoti-Uduaghan filed separate suits. Observers said the court drama tarnished parliament's image, especially amid discussions on gender inclusion in politics.
Acknowledged Distraction
Bamidele acknowledged the episode was a significant distraction. 'The lowest point was when it looked like there was no order on the floor of the Senate, when it looked like we have no respect for the female gender, when it looked like we were not together as an institution,' he said. He added that rather than discussing the Senate's work, media platforms focused on whether the suspension was justified or the period was fair.
'That was a major distraction. It wasn't a happy moment. The work we were doing and how we were trying to make laws for good governance, that distraction became the news,' he stated.
Achievements Despite Challenges
Despite the challenges, Bamidele said the Senate achieved significant milestones over three years, including effective representation and strengthened oversight of government agencies to ensure proper use of public funds. He noted that the Senate worked with the executive to stabilise the economy through legislation, such as tax reform bills aimed at boosting revenue in the non-oil sector.
He also highlighted modifications in laws related to security exchange, forex exchange, banking, and finance to stabilise industries. Bamidele said he sponsored over 70 bills, with more than 50 per cent being private member bills, and seven led to the establishment of at least six federal institutions in two years.
