Ex-Lawmaker Ojudu Supports Natasha, Calls Senate’s 6-Month Suspension ‘A Gross Injustice’
A former Special Adviser to the immediate-past President Muhammadu Buhari, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, has condemned the suspension of Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling it a “gross injustice” and part of a “desperate smear campaign” by the Nigerian Senate.
Ojudu shared his thoughts in a Facebook post on Friday titled: “On the Suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan: A Grave Injustice and a Desperate Smear Campaign.”
He remarked, “The Nigerian Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan after she raised allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio is deeply troubling and unjustifiable.”
While acknowledging he does not take a position on the truthfulness of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims, Ojudu stressed that the core principle of fairness demanded Akpabio step aside from overseeing the case since he was personally involved. “It was his responsibility to recuse himself and let his deputy handle the matter impartially. By not doing so, he undermined the Senate’s integrity and reinforced the perception of institutional bias against women who choose to speak out,” he said.
Ojudu, who served as a Senator for Ekiti Central, emphasized that Akpoti-Uduaghan is no ordinary politician. Having interacted with her during his tenure in the Presidency, he described her as a woman of remarkable strength, intellect, and resolve. “She is not the type to be dismissed easily or intimidated,” he stated.
Reflecting on her political career in Kogi State, Ojudu noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan had faced numerous challenges and persecution yet remained steadfast in her commitment to serving her people. “Her connection with the grassroots is unquestionable, and her determination to better her constituency is evident in her tireless advocacy,” he added.
The veteran journalist also criticized the staged protests in both Abuja and Akwa Ibom, which he described as part of an orchestrated effort to malign Akpoti-Uduaghan’s character. “These protests are clearly artificial—shamelessly poorly executed theatrics that insult the intelligence of Nigerians. It’s obvious these are not spontaneous demonstrations but paid performances meant to discredit a woman who refuses to be silenced.”
He went on to argue that such measures indicated that “someone has something to hide,” calling the tactics “cheap” and “an embarrassment to any society that values democracy.”
Ojudu expressed confidence that Akpoti-Uduaghan would overcome this suspension, viewing it as a temporary obstacle in her journey. “She will emerge stronger from this ordeal,” he asserted, noting her resilience in building a reputation as a determined politician and a dedicated public servant.
“Meanwhile, those behind this smear campaign will ultimately find themselves remembered for their role in this injustice,” he added. “Nigeria deserves a legislative body where justice is not only done but clearly seen to be done. The Senate must rectify this grave injustice and ensure that no lawmaker—especially a woman—suffers persecution for speaking out.”
