#FixPolitics, a civil society organization, has expressed its disapproval regarding the six-month suspension of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central.
The suspension, announced on March 6, was a result of what the Senate described as “gross misconduct” following a dispute over her seating arrangement with Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement released on Wednesday, #FixPolitics highlighted that this suspension not only disenfranchises the constituents of Kogi Central, who elected Akpoti-Uduaghan to be their representative, but it also poses a threat to democratic principles and the rule of law.
The group emphasised that the Senate’s action contradicts established judicial precedents, referencing cases such as Ali Ndume v. Senate of Nigeria (2018) and Senator Dino Melaye v. Senate of Nigeria (2016). These precedents confirm that lawmakers cannot be suspended in a manner that would deprive their constituents of representation.
“Beyond undermining democratic principles, this punitive measure also calls into question the institution’s willingness to address misconduct within its ranks,” the statement reads.
“Furthermore, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension highlights the systemic barriers and entrenched misogyny that Nigerian women face in politics and society at large.
“Female representation in the senate has plummeted by nearly 50%—from seven women in the 9th assembly to just four in the 10th assembly.
“This decision sets a dangerous precedent that could further discourage women from political participation and silence victims of harassment.”
The CSO said public officials must recognise that Nigeria does not exist in isolation, noting that the conduct of public officials is being scrutinised globally.
It added that such decisions do not only affect domestic politics but also shape Nigeria’s international reputation.
“The senate, as Nigeria’s highest lawmaking body, must uphold the rule of law rather than continuously flout court rulings that protect the rights of elected representatives and their constituents,” the CSO cautioned.
“We stand in solidarity with Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and commend her courage in speaking out on this matter. The senate’s response sets a troubling precedent that may discourage other victims from speaking out for fear of retaliation or dismissal.
“#FixPolitics unequivocally condemns the senate’s actions and demands the immediate reinstatement of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.”
