JUST-IN: Senate Rejects Live Coverage as Natasha Appears Before Panel Wednesday

The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions has rejected calls for live television coverage of its proceedings as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, is set to appear before the panel over alleged misconduct on Wednesday.

Senator Neda Imasuen, the chairman of the committee, revealed this during an interview on Arise News TV’s The Morning Show, which was monitored by our correspondent.

Explaining the committee’s decision, Imasuen emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on the matter at hand without external distractions.

“On the issue of the media, we want to be very careful not to overplay things. This is a matter within the Senate, and turning it into a media affair may be distracting. My committee room can only accommodate so many people—not many—and the committee has about 23 or 24 members. We want to stay focused on the issue before us and not be distracted by any other matter,” Imasuen said.

He reassured the public that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan would be granted a fair hearing, stating, “Distinguished Senator Natasha has privileges just like any other senator, and her privileges will be protected. She will get a fair hearing in this matter as long as I am here. She is my friend, and no one will trample on her rights.”

When asked about the ongoing controversy surrounding alleged sexual misconduct within the Senate, Imasuen declined to comment, citing legal constraints.

“The issue of sex in the Senate is already before a law court, and that makes the whole conversation subjudice. I cannot comment on any matter that is before a law court, and as a lawyer, I have to respect that privilege,” he explained.

Imasuen also addressed concerns about seating arrangements in the Senate, which have reportedly led to tensions. Referring to the Senate’s procedural rules, he stated, “The matter before us in the committee is about seating arrangements. I can only direct you to Order Six of our rule book, which regulates the activities of the Senate. It clearly states that seats are allocated to senators just like our offices, and from time to time, anything can happen to necessitate the reallocation of seats.”

Dismissing claims of gender-based discrimination, Imasuen asserted that Senate President Godswill Akpabio does not single out female senators for unfair treatment.

“There are four female senators in this Assembly, and I will tell you straight up that I am very close to at least three of them. I sit next to Senator Ireti Kingibe, and I consider her a friend. The issue in question does not concern sexual harassment. It is a matter of privilege, and I do not believe it was directed at any individual because of their gender. There are many times I raise my hand to speak, and the Senate President does not recognize me while recognizing someone behind me. But he cannot entertain every senator’s opinion at every sitting. It is his prerogative.”

He further clarified, “The Senate President, in my opinion, has not made any sexual remarks to any of the female senators, and I don’t think any of the female senators have complained about sexual harassment against him or anyone else. We joke a lot in the Senate, I must let you know that.”

Concluding his remarks, Imasuen urged Nigerians to allow the committee to handle the case without undue interference.

“Everybody should be patient and allow us to handle the case before us,” he said.