Former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Rowland Owie, has criticized the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, warning that the decision could damage the credibility of the 10th Senate.
Owie described the suspension as legislative impunity, arguing that no senator should be arbitrarily denied their mandate.
“We are not in a Banana Republic. A senator remains a senator anytime, any day, even when suspended or as a non-serving senator. The 10th Senate must exercise caution to preserve the integrity of the institution,” he said.
The controversy began on February 20, 2025, when Akpoti-Uduaghan protested the reassignment of her Senate seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The situation escalated after she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment. Although her initial petition was blocked, it was later referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions after she resubmitted her complaint.
Citing a court order restraining the Senate from investigating her, Akpoti-Uduaghan refused to appear before the committee. Despite the legal restrictions, the Senate proceeded with disciplinary action, resulting in her six-month suspension.
Owie stressed the importance of due process, warning that mishandling such issues could weaken the Senate.
“If issues are brought before the Senate, there must be thorough investigations—nothing should be swept under the carpet. Ordinarily, the President of the Senate ought to step down to allow for an impartial investigation,” he said.