Senate backs Akpabio with confidence vote amid Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations

Forty-eight hours after suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) addressed the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in New York, alleging that she was suspended for raising sexual harassment claims against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the Senate has overwhelmingly passed a vote of confidence in Akpabio.

In a plenary session on Thursday, lawmakers urged Nigerians not to be distracted by the allegations, emphasizing that the matter is already in court. Citing Order 40 of its standing rules, the Senate stated that it is legally restrained from intervening in the case.

The vote of confidence was moved by Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central) and seconded by Senate Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Olalere Oyewumi (Osun West). The motion received overwhelming support from all senators present at the plenary.

Senator Bamidele, while presenting the motion, highlighted Akpabio’s leadership qualities and stressed the importance of unity within the legislative arm of government. He dismissed attempts to discredit the Senate President, stating that distractions could undermine the chamber’s legislative agenda.

Addressing the sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio, the Senate maintained that since the matter is currently before the court, any discussion or intervention by the legislature would be a violation of its rules.

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Order 40 of the Senate Standing Rules bars lawmakers from engaging in issues that are sub judice (under judicial consideration).

The Senate further reaffirmed its commitment to upholding due process and the rule of law, urging all parties involved to allow the judiciary to handle the matter appropriately.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2024 following a heated session in the Senate. She later took her grievances to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in New York, where she alleged that her suspension was a retaliation for exposing sexual harassment within the upper legislative chamber.

Her speech at the IPU gained international attention, prompting reactions from various human rights groups and political observers. However, the Senate has remained firm in its stance that her suspension was in accordance with legislative rules and procedures.

The Senate’s vote of confidence in Akpabio signals a strong show of support for his leadership and a rebuttal of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims.

Political analysts suggest that this move could further polarize opinions within the political landscape, with some seeing it as an attempt to silence dissent, while others view it as a necessary step to maintain the integrity of the Senate.

As the case progresses in court, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the Senate’s internal dynamics and the broader political environment in Nigeria.