Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Exposes Marginalization in National Assembly Committee Row
In a dramatic development at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has publicly voiced grave concerns over what she describes as a systematic curtailment of her legislative prerogatives within the 10th Senate. The incident, which has gone viral on social media, centers on her alleged exclusion from the Senate committee on the North Central Development Commission, igniting tensions and raising questions about procedural fairness and equality among lawmakers.
Exclusion from Key Committee Sparks Protest
According to reports from Vanguard and The Cable, Senator Natasha arrived fully prepared to participate in a committee meeting on Monday, February 16, only to discover that her name was conspicuously missing from the official attendance list. Upon inquiring with the committee clerk, she was directed to the office of the committee chairman, Senator Titus Tartenger Zam, where she was informed that her omission was based on instructions from higher authorities, though no specific details were provided.
Expressing deep frustration, Senator Natasha labeled this event as part of a recurring pattern of marginalization, emphasizing that all Senators hold equal constitutional status, authority, and mandate. She questioned the procedural and constitutional basis for her exclusion, particularly given that the committee's work directly impacts her region in the North Central geopolitical zone, undermining her ability to effectively represent her constituents.
Allegations of Harassment Escalate Tensions
The situation deteriorated further when Senator Natasha alleged that aides attached to the committee chairman confronted her media team during the meeting. She claimed that approximately six aides, including the chairman's secretary, seized her cinematographer's phone and engaged in verbal hostility, an act she described as unacceptable and a violation of her rights. This confrontation has added fuel to the fire, highlighting broader issues of respect and institutional integrity within the legislative body.
Reaffirming her commitment to fairness, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan insisted that her demands are rooted in the electoral mandate entrusted to her by the people of Kogi Central. She pledged to continue advocating for equitable treatment whenever legislative rights are undermined, underscoring her determination to uphold the principles of democracy and accountability in public service.
Calls for Transparency and Legislative Reform
The incident has sparked widespread discussion within political and parliamentary circles, with observers urging strict adherence to legislative procedures, greater transparency in committee administration, and the preservation of equality among members of the 10th National Assembly. Many are calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations to ensure that such exclusions do not become a norm, potentially eroding public trust in Nigeria's democratic institutions.
In a related context, Senator Natasha has previously denied receiving N500 million from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, dismissing the claim as a fabrication designed to damage her reputation. She challenged the rumormongers to provide credible evidence, reiterating her commitment to integrity and accountability. This latest dispute adds to a series of controversies surrounding her tenure, including past ultimatums to the Senate and clashes over suspension issues.
As the video of the incident trends on social media platforms like X, the focus remains on ensuring that all Senators, regardless of political affiliations, are treated with the respect and equality mandated by the constitution. The outcome of this row could set a precedent for how legislative disputes are handled in the future, impacting the overall functionality and credibility of Nigeria's National Assembly.
