- Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is suing her six-month suspension from the Nigerian Senate, claiming it is politically motivated and a violation of her rights.
- Natasha Akpoti, who was suspended in March 2025, claims the suspension was retaliation for her sexual harassment accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
- Senator representing Kogi Central seeks N100 billion in damages from the Federal High Court, claiming Senate actions violate her rights and disenfranchise her constituents.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has initiated legal proceedings against the Nigerian Senate, contesting her six-month suspension, which she describes as politically motivated and a breach of her constitutional rights.
The suspension, imposed in March 2025, stemmed from allegations that she disrupted Senate proceedings by speaking without being recognized, ignoring seating protocols, and making comments deemed “abusive” by Senate leaders. However, Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, insists that the disciplinary action is a reprisal for her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a suit filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the senator is seeking N100 billion in compensation. She contends that the suspension not only infringes on her rights but also effectively silences the voice of her constituents in legislative matters.
The court is expected to hear contempt-related applications on the matter today, Tuesday, May 13. The lawsuit has sparked public debate, with civil society groups warning that the outcome could have far-reaching consequences for democratic values, transparency, and the protection of female lawmakers in Nigeria’s political space.
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