Natasha Akpoti’s Senate Suspension: Youth Leaders Demand Apology!

The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders has called on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to apologize to the Senate and its President, Godswill Akpabio, after the controversy that led to her suspension.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja during International Women’s Day 2025, the coalition, made up of various youth organizations, described the saga as needless and urged the senator to seek reconciliation instead of escalating tensions.

Natasha Akpoti vs. Senate: What Led to Her Suspension?

On February 28, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment and submitted a formal petition against him.

This followed a heated altercation between the two on February 20 over seating arrangements during a plenary session. Akpoti-Uduaghan openly defied Akpabio’s directives, refused her assigned seat, and repeatedly raised a point of order, despite being overruled.

As tensions escalated, the Senate Ethics and Privileges Committee was tasked with reviewing her actions. On March 6, the Senate officially suspended Akpoti after adopting the committee’s report.

Despite being invited to defend herself, Senator Akpoti refused to appear before the committee, further fueling controversy.

‘Seek Peace, Not War’ – Youth Leaders Advise Natasha Akpoti

Youth leaders, including Victor Thompson (Niger Delta Youths) and Salisu Pawa (Northern Nigeria Peoples Congress), stressed that the drama had drawn unnecessary attention to the National Assembly.

According to them, the Senate must uphold discipline, and lawmakers should resolve disputes professionally rather than turning them into public scandals.

While advocating for more female leadership in Nigerian politics, the youth leaders also emphasized the importance of decorum and integrity in governance.

They also warned against hasty calls for Akpabio’s resignation, insisting that all allegations must be handled with due process and fairness.

What’s Next for Senator Natasha Akpoti?

With political tensions rising, will Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan apologize as the youth groups demand, or will she continue to challenge the Senate’s decision?

The Senate remains firm on its decision, and Akpoti’s next move could determine her political future.