The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vehemently condemned the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate, calling it a calculated move to suppress allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement issued by its spokesman, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP criticized the Senate’s decision, arguing that suspending Akpoti-Uduaghan without a transparent investigation undermines fair hearing and damages the institution’s credibility.
“The hasty suspension not only disregards parliamentary conventions but also paints the Senate as an institution that shields misconduct,” the statement read.
The opposition party also emphasized that the six-month suspension effectively denies the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District their constitutional right to representation in the Senate.
Describing the move as an abuse of power, the PDP questioned why Senator Akpabio remains in office while facing such allegations.
The party recalled past accusations against Akpabio, including claims by Dr. Joi Nunieh, the former acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
PDP argued that Akpabio’s refusal to step aside raises serious concerns about his integrity.
“If Senator Akpabio has nothing to hide, he should submit himself to an open and unbiased investigation in line with parliamentary practice,” the PDP insisted.
Beyond the sexual harassment allegations, the PDP also pointed to ongoing corruption investigations into Akpabio’s tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, accusing the Senate leadership of being entangled in controversies that undermine its role in holding the executive accountable.
However, the PDP urged the Senate to reinstate Akpoti-Uduaghan and ensure a fair and transparent investigation into her claims to uphold its integrity.