The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has drawn sharp criticism from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi. The lawmaker was suspended for six months after accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment and rejecting a new seating arrangement. The Senate Ethics and Values Committee claimed her actions ridiculed the institution, leading to her suspension without a formal investigation.
Reacting to the decision, Atiku, through his media aide Paul Ibe, condemned the Senate for acting without due process. He argued that suspending a female senator without an inquiry undermines affirmative action and raises concerns about Nigeria’s commitment to gender equality. He warned that silencing women in leadership discourages their participation in governance, limiting national growth. Atiku further stated that with International Women’s Day approaching, the suspension sends the wrong message about Nigeria’s stance on women’s rights.
Similarly, Peter Obi, through the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Tanko Yunusa, expressed dissatisfaction with the Senate’s actions. He described the suspension as unjust and politically motivated, warning that such a move sets a dangerous precedent. The backlash from Atiku, Obi, and other stakeholders reflects growing concerns about democracy and justice in Nigeria, as political power continues to be used to suppress dissenting voices.