…Ezekwesili Slams Senate Over Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding the sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, Mrs Tinubu, a former senator, expressed confidence in the Senate’s handling of the situation.
“I know what is going on in the Senate; you will say why am I not taking a position. I believe that the Senate is doing what is needful,” she said.
She further emphasised the importance of maintaining the dignity of the legislative chamber. “This is because the Senate is a mature chamber and it should be treated with respect. It is also an honour for anyone who happens to be there. I was there for 12 years,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Senate has suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, citing a “total violation of the Senate Standing Rules 2023, as amended.”
The suspension, which followed the recommendations of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, was announced during plenary on Thursday.
Senate Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele defended the decision, stating that Akpoti-Uduaghan needed to understand the rules of the Senate. “I asked her what she will gain if she tries to pull the Senate President down,” he said.
However, Akpoti-Uduaghan has condemned the Senate’s decision, insisting that she is being victimised for speaking out. “This injustice will not be sustained,” she declared.
The suspension has sparked reactions, with critics arguing that the Senate is suppressing Akpoti-Uduaghan instead of addressing her allegations against Akpabio.
Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, described the Senate’s action as a “vicious abuse of power.”
She argued that instead of investigating the sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio, the Senate chose an “ignoble path.”
Ezekwesili further expressed support for Akpoti-Uduaghan, stating, “Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. You have inspired a generation. You have inspired all credible citizens. You will never walk alone.”
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