[JUST IN] Natasha: Senate Passes Vote Of Confidence On Akpabio

• Senate backs Akpabio: Vote of confidence passed.
• Natasha’s suspension explained: Senate denies claims of harassment.
• Focus on governance: Lawmakers urged to prioritize legislative duties.

The Nigerian Senate has passed a vote of confidence on Senate President Godswill Akpabio, reaffirming its support for his leadership despite ongoing tensions within the upper legislative chamber.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that this development follows a motion moved by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who invoked Orders 40 and 51 to address concerns regarding recent events in the Senate.

Bamidele underscored the importance of legislative order, transparency, and governance while dismissing misconceptions surrounding the controversy.

The controversy gained traction after Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended over allegations of gross misconduct. Her suspension followed accusations of harassment against Senate President Akpabio, a claim she later escalated to the United Nations’ Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on Tuesday.

In response, the Senate formally addressed the IPU on Wednesday, stating that Senator Natasha’s suspension was not linked to her allegations but rather was a disciplinary measure for violating Senate rules.

During the plenary session, Bamidele emphasized that no formal case of harassment had been presented before the Senate. He maintained that disciplinary actions taken against the senator were strictly for breaches of legislative protocol and due process had been followed in handling the matter.

“I want to make it clear that the matter referred to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges had nothing to do with harassment. The Senate President did not preside over any case related to such allegations. What was addressed was a flagrant disregard for Senate rules, and we followed due process as guided by the Constitution,” Bamidele stated.

Bamidele further defended the Senate’s authority to enforce order within its chambers, arguing that suspension remains a legitimate tool for maintaining legislative integrity. He dismissed claims that the Senate had exceeded its constitutional mandate, reinforcing that internal disciplinary measures are vital to preserving order.

“It was never an issue before us that any member of us was harassed, and we hold on to that point. We need to put the events of the last two weeks behind us and concentrate. There is work before us, and we have done everything possible, ensuring that the electoral reforms and others have legislative expressions,” he added.

Addressing international concerns, Bamidele clarified that any statements made by Senator Natasha during the IPU meeting were her personal views and did not represent Nigeria’s official position.

Bamidele urged civil society organizations to be objective in their analysis and direct their advocacy toward genuine cases of harassment.

“We have heard you, but we need to concentrate on our work. If we choose to remain silent on this matter going forward, know that it is intentional on our part. Please be objective in your analysis and save energy for those genuine victims of harassment,” he remarked.

At the end of the session, the Senate formally reaffirmed its confidence in Akpabio’s leadership and commended his handling of the controversy. Presiding over the session, Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin stressed the need for lawmakers to focus on their core responsibilities, including oversight functions following the passage of the national budget.

Jibrin further reminded the Senate that the matter was now before the courts and should be left for the judicial system to resolve.

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