Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has characterized the six-month suspension of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as one of the "lowest moments" of the 10th Senate. Bamidele made this remark during activities marking the third anniversary of the 10th Senate, where he reflected on the challenges faced by the National Assembly since its inauguration.
Reflections on the Suspension
According to Bamidele, the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan was "one of the lowest moments for the Senate" and "not a happy moment." He noted that it created a public perception that the institution lacked unity, discipline, and sufficient regard for women. His comments have continued to generate reactions across the country, with many Nigerians interpreting the statement as an acknowledgment that the handling of the matter damaged the image of the Senate.
Background of the Suspension
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 following a confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary over seating arrangements. The Senate subsequently adopted recommendations of its Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, resulting in her suspension for six months. The sanctions included the closure of her National Assembly office, withdrawal of salaries and allowances, suspension of official security details, and the denial of benefits to her legislative aides throughout the period.
Public Reaction and Debate
Although the Kogi lawmaker resumed legislative duties in September 2025 after serving the suspension, the episode remained a subject of public debate, attracting criticism from civil society organizations, legal practitioners, and constituents who argued that the punishment was excessive. Bamidele said Akpoti-Uduaghan's suspension created the impression that the upper legislative chamber lacked order and respect for women.
Bamidele noted that the prolonged public debate over Akpoti-Uduaghan's suspension overshadowed the red chamber's legislative output and dominated the media. "A lot has been done, but I will mention what I consider to be the lowest point of the 10th assembly," Bamidele said. "It was when it looked like there was no order on the floor of the Senate; when it looked like we had no respect for the female gender; when it looked like we were not together as an institution."
"It was at the time when a senator would grant an interview to say the 10th senate is the worst senate that this country has produced. We witnessed all of these. It lasted for a period. It was at a point where, rather than talking about what we were doing about the senate, the discussion on the media platform every morning was about whether or not we did the right thing suspending a senator; or whether the period of suspension was fair enough or was too long. So, essentially, there was a major distraction, and for me, it wasn't a happy moment."
Achievements Despite Challenges
Bamidele said the controversy diverted attention from the senate's efforts to enact laws aimed at promoting good governance and supporting economic stability. "But as for achievements, I want to say that this senate has done a lot in working with the executive arm of government to stabilise this economy through the laws that we have made," he added.
