The Senate Ethics and Public Petitions Committee of the Nigerian Senate has recommended a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Uduaghan-Akpoti following a series of allegations and investigations into her conduct.
The committee in an official communication to the Senate, proposed that Senator Uduaghan-Akpoti be suspended from her duties effective March 6th, barring her from participating in any legislative activities or Senate proceedings during this period.
Before she can resume her role, she must issue a formal written apology to the Senate and the public, addressing the specific actions that led to the disciplinary measures and demonstrating remorse for her conduct.
During the suspension period, Senator Uduaghan-Akpoti’s office will be locked, and all government property in her possession must be handed over to the appropriate authorities.
She will also be prohibited from entering the National Assembly Complex, ensuring that she does not interfere with Senate operations or influence ongoing legislative processes.
In addition to these measures, the committee has recommended the suspension of all financial benefits, including salaries, allowances, and other perks, for the duration of the six-month period.
Her security detail will also be withdrawn, further emphasizing the seriousness of the sanctions.
Furthermore, Senator Uduaghan-Akpoti will be barred from presenting herself as a senator in any local or international media outlets during her suspension, preventing her from using her position to influence public opinion or gain sympathy while under disciplinary action.
The recommendations come amid growing scrutiny of Senator Uduaghan-Akpoti’s conduct, which has been the subject of multiple public petitions and ethics investigations.
While the specific details of the allegations have not been fully disclosed, sources indicate that they involve breaches of ethical standards, misuse of office resources, and actions deemed unbecoming of a public official.
The Ethics and Public Petitions Committee, tasked with upholding the integrity of the Senate, conducted a thorough investigation before arriving at its recommendations.
The committee’s decision reflects a commitment to accountability and transparency, particularly in light of public demand for stricter oversight of elected officials.
The proposed sanctions have sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum.
If the recommendations are approved by the full Senate, Senator Uduaghan-Akpoti’s suspension would set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
The Senate is expected to deliberate on the committee’s recommendations in the coming days.
If approved, the sanctions will take immediate effect, and Senator Uduaghan-Akpoti will be required to comply with all conditions outlined by the committee.