The senator representing Benue South at the red chamber and the Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, has pleaded with the Senate to reconsider the six-month suspension recommended for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), urging that it be reduced to three months.
Speaking during Thursday’s plenary ongoing session, Moro argued that a three-month suspension would be enough to address the concerns raised while ensuring fairness.
He noted that while disciplinary measures are necessary, excessive punishment could set a dangerous precedent.
However, the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions had earlier recommended a six-month suspension for Natasha following allegations of sexual harassment she made against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The committee, led by Senator Neda Imasuen, also advised that her salary and security details be withdrawn, stating that she was guilty of all allegations because she refused to appear before the panel to defend herself.
Natasha had accused Akpabio of obstructing her motions, the Ajaokuta Steel Company.
She also alleged that he referred to her as a “night club girl” on the Senate floor, a comment he later apologized for.
Akpabio, however, has consistently denied all allegations, maintaining that he respects women and has done nothing inappropriate.
In addition, Senator representing Kogi West Steve Karimi from spoke to issues afterwards apologising to Akpabio for backing her for a leadership role.
