The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate has been described as a grave injustice and a desperate smear campaign.
Senator Babafemi Ojudu stated this in reaction to the suspension of the senator for raising allegations of sexual harassment against the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
He stated further that the decision of the upper chamber of the National Assembly, on Thursday, was deeply troubling and unjustifiable.
The former federal lawmaker added that, though he did not take any position on the veracity of the claim of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the fundamental principle of fairness demands that Senator Akpabio should not have presided over a case in which he was personally implicated.
“It was his duty to step aside and allow his deputy to handle the matter impartially. By failing to do so, he compromised the integrity of the Senate and reinforced the perception of institutional bias against women who dare to speak up.
Senator Ojudu stated that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is not one to be dismissed lightly, adding that she is a woman of immense strength and purpose.
“I had the opportunity to interact with her in an official capacity while serving in the Presidency, and I can attest that she is a woman of immense strength, intelligence, and purpose.
“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is neither frivolous, nor is she someone who can be easily intimidated.
“Her journey in Kogi State has been marked by monumental struggles and persecution, yet she has remained unwavering in her commitment to her people.
“The grassroots connection of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is undeniable and her dedication to uplifting her constituency is evident in her relentless advocacy,” he added.
Beyond what he described as the unjust suspension, Ojudu stated that the rash of hired protesters in both Abuja and Akwa Ibom State, “clearly orchestrated to malign her”, was even more disgraceful.
“These so-called protests are glaringly artificial, a poorly executed charade that insults the intelligence of Nigerians.
“It is evident to the world that these are not spontaneous expressions of public sentiment but paid theatrics aimed at discrediting a strong woman who refuses to be silenced.
“The fact that such desperate measures are being deployed only signals that someone has something to hide. This playbook is cheap, nauseating, and frankly, an embarrassment to any society that claims to uphold democratic values.
“But history has shown that truth and justice always prevail. This suspension is nothing more than a temporary setback.
“Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan will emerge from this even stronger, her resilience further cementing her place as a formidable politician and conscientious public servant.
“Meanwhile, those orchestrating this smear campaign will find their names recorded in the book of infamy—a stark reminder of those who stood on the wrong side of history.
“Nigeria deserves a legislative chamber where justice is not only done but seen to be done.
“The Senate must correct this grave injustice and ensure that no lawmaker—especially a woman—faces persecution for speaking out,” Senator Ojudu declared.
