The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has strongly condemned her recent suspension from the Nigerian Senate, describing it as an injustice that contradicts the principles of natural justice, fairness, and equity.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, through her chief Press Secretary Isreal Orogbonlo, the senator from Kogi Central vowed to continue serving her constituents despite what she termed an “illegal suspension.”
Against what she calls a culture of silence, intimidation, and victim-shaming, Akpoti-Uduaghan asserted that her removal does not diminish her legitimacy as a duly elected senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
She reaffirmed her commitment to representing her people until the end of her tenure in 2027 and beyond.
“The illegal suspension does not withdraw my legitimacy as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and I will continue to use my duly elected position to serve my constituents and country to the best of my ability till 2027 … and beyond,” she declared.
The circumstances surrounding her suspension remain a subject of intense debate, with many questioning the legality of the decision and its implications for democratic governance in Nigeria.
Political analysts and legal experts have weighed in on the matter, with some describing the action as a suppression of dissenting voices in the legislative arm of government.
Supporters of Akpoti-Uduaghan have taken to social media to express solidarity, calling for a reversal of the suspension and urging Senate leadership to uphold democratic principles. Meanwhile, opposition figures have criticized what they perceive as an attempt to stifle independent voices in the Senate.
As the controversy unfolds, pressure is mounting on the Senate to provide a legal justification for the suspension, with advocacy groups and civil society organizations calling for transparency and due process in legislative proceedings.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a vocal advocate for social justice and development in Kogi Central, has built a reputation for challenging the status quo. Her suspension raises broader concerns about legislative independence and the balance of power within Nigeria’s political system.
It remains to be seen how the Senate leadership will respond to growing calls for a review of the suspension, but Akpoti-Uduaghan has made it clear that she intends to continue serving her people despite the setback.