ActionAid Nigeria Raises Concerns Over Senate Suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan
By Baba Dan’Iya
ActionAid Nigeria (AAN) has expressed concern over the swift suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate, citing potential breaches of due process.
In a statement signed by its Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, AAN acknowledged the Senate’s authority to discipline members for rule violations, as seen in the case of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended for misconduct and non-compliance with seating arrangements during the February 20, 2025 plenary.
However, AAN questioned the speed of the Senate’s Ethics Committee’s actions. “The speed with which the Senate’s Ethics Committee investigated, ruled on, and implemented her suspension raises concerns about due process. Within 24 hours, she was subjected to an inquiry, found guilty, and suspended for six months—losing her salary, allowances, security details, and access to her office,” Mamedu stated.
He emphasized the constitutional right to a fair hearing, referencing Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution, and cited judicial precedent that legislative suspensions should not exceed 14 days. “How then does this six-month suspension align with legal precedent?” he queried.
AAN also highlighted Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s resubmitted petition alleging sexual harassment. “ActionAid Nigeria expects the same urgency applied to her suspension to be used in reviewing this case,” Mamedu said.
The organization called for an immediate, independent, and transparent inquiry into the senator’s allegations against the Senate President. AAN urged the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to intervene, ensuring impartiality and fair treatment.
“The involvement of an independent body in reviewing legislative disciplinary measures would strengthen public confidence in the system,” Mamedu noted.
AAN warned that the suspension weakens women’s representation in the Senate, reducing it from 3.6% to 2.7%. “The suspension of a female senator—especially in a case where the punishment is being questioned—only reinforces structural barriers that discourage women from pursuing political office,” he said.
The organization also pointed out the impact on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents in Kogi Central, who are now effectively unrepresented. “This raises fundamental concerns about democratic representation,” Mamedu stated.
He urged the Senate to uphold democratic principles and accommodate dissenting voices. “The credibility of any democratic institution lies in its ability to accommodate differing perspectives, protect fundamental human rights, and ensure justice for all,” he said.
As Nigeria commemorates International Women’s Day, AAN called on the government to strengthen policies promoting women’s political participation. “Creating a fair, transparent, and safe environment for female politicians to emerge and thrive is a critical development goal,” Mamedu emphasized.
He warned that failure to address these concerns would undermine Nigeria’s commitment to gender justice and human rights.
Mamedu reaffirmed AAN’s commitment to gender justice and democratic integrity.
