IPU Assures Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Fair Consideration in Suspension Matter

The President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Tulia Ackson, has assured suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, that appropriate actions will be taken after carefully considering both sides regarding her suspension.

Senator Natasha had appealed to the IPU and the United Nations (UN) for intervention, describing her suspension as unjust and politically motivated following a clash with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She raised her concerns at the Women in Parliament session during the IPU meeting in the United States, where she sought justice and called on global democratic institutions to address what she termed as political victimization.

During the session, Natasha addressed the assembly, stating, “I come with a heavy heart from Nigeria. But first, I’d like to apologise to honourable members, I am not here to bring shame to my country. I am here to seek help for the women of Nigeria.”

She went on to explain that on March 6, 2025, she was suspended after submitting a petition of sexual harassment against Senate President Akpabio. Natasha asserted that rather than a fair investigation, her suspension was a retaliation for her complaint, and it was accompanied by severe penalties, including the withdrawal of her security, official vehicles, entitlements, and salary. Additionally, she was prohibited from attending the National Assembly or representing her constituents for six months.

“I believe this is a clear case of political victimisation and a systematic effort to exclude women from leadership in Nigeria,” Natasha said. She emphasized that her treatment was an affront to democracy, as it silenced the voices of her constituents and women in leadership.

In response, Ackson, in a video obtained by reporters, acknowledged the concerns raised by Natasha. She assured that the IPU would consider both sides of the issue before taking any action.

“We have heard her concerns, and having listened to her, it would have been an opportunity for us to understand more about what she said,” Ackson remarked. “However, as an institution, it is customary for the IPU to hear both sides. After listening to the other side, we will take necessary steps.”

Ackson also noted that while a Nigerian delegate had requested to speak, time constraints prevented them from doing so during the session. Nonetheless, she reiterated that the IPU had heard Natasha’s concerns and would carefully consider all viewpoints before deciding on the matter.

The IPU President assured the assembly that the issue would be handled with due diligence, reaffirming the union’s commitment to a thorough and fair process before taking any action.