Akpoti-Uduaghan Defies Suspension, Vows to Continue Serving Constituents… Suspension is Unjust says Opposition Parties
By Missang AKPET
Following the suspension of the Senator representing Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the senate, leading opposition parties in the country have condemned the suspension describing it as unjust and a clear infringement on her rights and privileges.
The suspension, which was recommended by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Code of Conduct, was imposed on Akpoti-Uduaghan for "gross misconduct" after she engaged in a heated debate with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over a seating arrangement on February 20.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a press statement signed by its publicity secretary Debo Ologunaba asserts that the action of the Akpabio-led Senate leadership against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan smacks of a desperation to cover up.
The PDP has criticized the Senate for its handling of the sexual harassment petition filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio, calling for an open investigation into the allegations. The party has also demanded that Akpabio submit himself for investigation, insisting that he cannot be a judge in a matter that concerns him.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party has also weighed in on the issue, describing the suspension as "draconian" and calling for the Senate to reconsider its decision.
The party's National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan was not given the opportunity to properly defend herself and that the suspension was undemocratic.
The New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) on its part has also expressed shock at the outcome, with its National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, stating that the complaint brought to the floor of the Senate should have been properly investigated before any action was taken.
Akpoti-Uduaghan Vows to Continue Serving
Despite her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to continue serving her constituents, stating that her suspension does not withdraw her legitimacy as a senator. She has described her suspension as unjust and has called for an open investigation into the allegations against Akpabio.
