IPU president promises fair hearing on Nigerian senator’s suspension

DDM News

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is a global organization that fosters cooperation among national parliaments.

Founded in 1889, it promotes democracy, human rights, and gender equality in legislative processes.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM), the IPU collaborates with the United Nations (UN) and other international bodies to strengthen governance worldwide.

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, it plays a key role in protecting parliamentarians’ rights and promoting fair representation.

The IPU President, Tulia Ackson, has responded to concerns regarding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

She assured that the IPU would examine both perspectives before making any official statement.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, presented her case at the IPU Women in Parliament session.

The session was held at the United Nations headquarters in New York on March 11, 2025.

She alleged that her suspension resulted from her sexual harassment petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

According to her, the suspension was unlawful and intended to silence her.

She claimed that she expected Akpabio to step aside for a transparent investigation.

Instead, she was suspended for six months under harsh conditions.

She stated that her security personnel and official vehicles were withdrawn after the suspension.

Her salary was also cut off, preventing her from carrying out her legislative responsibilities.

She said she was barred from appearing at the National Assembly for the suspension period.

She was also prohibited from representing herself as a senator locally and internationally.

She described her suspension as political victimization for speaking out against corruption, impunity, and gender-based violence.

She argued that her case highlights the challenges women face in Nigerian politics.

She expressed fear that she could be detained for speaking at the global forum.

She emphasized that women in Nigerian politics are often suppressed and discriminated against.

The Nigerian Senate denied that her suspension was related to her sexual harassment claims.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele stated that she was suspended for unparliamentary behavior.

Her suspension was based on the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended), Sections 6.1 and 6.2.

The Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges reviewed her actions before imposing disciplinary measures.

The Senate alleged that she violated legislative protocols and refused to comply with sitting arrangements.

The six-month suspension could be lifted earlier if she submits a written apology.

The IPU has assured that it will impartially review the matter before issuing any recommendations.

This case has sparked national and international discussions on gender discrimination and legislative accountability.

Many observers argue that the suspension raises concerns about fairness and political retaliation in Nigeria’s legislature.

The outcome of this case could have long-term implications for gender representation in Nigerian politics.

The IPU’s intervention is expected to bring attention to issues affecting female politicians globally.

As debates continue, the international community is watching to see how the Nigerian Senate will handle the controversy.

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