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Tag: Senator Natasha

  • Akpabio petitions IGP over assassination allegation by Senator Natasha

    Akpabio petitions IGP over assassination allegation by Senator Natasha

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, demanding an investigation into the assassination allegations leveled against him by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

    In the petition dated April 3, 2025, Akpabio denied the claims made by the Kogi Central Senator during a Sallah address on April 1 in her hometown of Obeiba-Ijioma, Okehi local government area of Kogi state.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan had accused Akpabio of allegedly directing former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello and the incumbent Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, to assassinate her and frame her constituents for the act.

    Describing the claims as “heinous lies” and a “reckless and deliberate attempt” to tarnish his reputation, Akpabio urged the police to probe the matter thoroughly. 

    He also forwarded the petition to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, seeking Akpoti-Uduaghan’s prosecution for criminal defamation.

    Akpabio further described the allegations as politically motivated and aimed at inciting unrest and damaging his public image.

    Akpabio said: “I write to formally bring to your attention and seek immediate investigation and prosecution of a criminally defamatory and malicious statement made against me by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a suspended member of the Nigerian Senate on the 1st of April, 2025 and which was widely publicised on radio stations, televisions and newspapers, including the social media.

    “In the public outburst at Kogi State while addressing her audience, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan falsely alleged that I instructed the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, to ‘assassinate her in Kogi State instead of Abuja’ with the intent of making it appear that her constituents were responsible for her death.”

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    “This statement is not only a heinous lie but a reckless and deliberate attempt to damage my reputation, endanger my life and security, and incite political unrest.”

    The Senate President noted that the allegation was made without any supporting evidence, adding that the widespread media coverage it received, further exacerbated the impact of the false claim.

    He said: “The severity of this false allegation, and the fact that it has gained public traction, makes it necessary that law enforcement agencies treat it with the urgency it deserves.”

    He called for a thorough investigation and prosecution of Akpoti-Uduaghan under the relevant provisions of the law.

  • CSOs unveil situation room to monitor recall process of Senator Natasha

    CSOs unveil situation room to monitor recall process of Senator Natasha

    A coalition of fifteen Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has launched a situation room to oversee the ongoing process aimed at recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District. 

    The recall initiative was triggered by a petition submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    In a press statement signed by Mike Femi, Convener and Lead Partner of the Civil Monitoring Society Situation Room for the Kogi Central Recall Exercise, the coalition emphasised its dedication to ensuring that the recall process adheres strictly to the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and INEC’s established guidelines.

    The CSOs confirmed that INEC had formally notified Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, as mandated by law, after receiving the petition from her constituents. 

    They stressed that while the right to recall is constitutional, the process must remain transparent, free from political manipulation, and conducted without bias.

    “As critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s democracy, we have a duty to ensure that governance operates within the spirit and letter of the law. Our role is to monitor the process and ensure fairness, transparency, and adherence to due process,” the coalition said.

    Read Also: BREAKING: INEC receives petition seeking Senator Natasha’s recall

    The group urged INEC to maintain neutrality and integrity throughout the exercise, cautioning that any attempts to politicize or manipulate the process would undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

    “While we are not here to take a position on the recall, we emphasize that it should not be influenced by political shenanigans. The will of the people must be respected, and the process must remain credible,” the statement added.

    The coalition also assured the public that a comprehensive report on the recall exercise would be released to provide an impartial assessment and ensure that all stakeholders, including Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, receive a fair review.

    “Our commitment is to uphold constitutionality and fairness throughout the process,” the statement concluded.

  • BREAKING: INEC receives petition seeking Senator Natasha’s recall

    BREAKING: INEC receives petition seeking Senator Natasha’s recall

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received the petition seeking the recall process of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central). 

    The petition was submitted on Monday and received by the commission’s secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony.

    The petition reads: “CONSTITUENTS’ PETITION FOR THE RECALL OF SENATOR NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN ON GROUNDS OF LOSS OF CONFIDENCE

    Read Also: Court halts INEC from processing recall petition against Senator Natasha

    “Dear Sir,

    1. We, the undersigned, being duly registered voters of the Kogi Central Senatorial District, hereby invoke our rights under the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to formally demand the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Nigerian Senate.
    2. In particular, this petition for the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is brought pursuant to Section 69 of the 1999 Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria (As Amended), as well as INEC’S Regulations and Guidelines for Recall Petitions.
    3. Kindly recall that Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan emerged as our Senator by verdict of the Court of Appeal, Abuja, on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 which affirmed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate as winner of the February 25, 2023 Kogi Central Senatorial election.
    4. This petition arises from our loss of confidence in the Senator on grounds of gross misconduct, abuse of office, evasion of due process and a pattern of deceitful behaviour that has not only embarrassed the people of Kogi Central constituency but has also tarnished the integrity of the Nigerian Senate and our nation’s
    democratic institutions.
    5. By this petition, which we have made sure is signed by more than one-half of the registered voters in Kogi Central, we hereby demand that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) immediately commence the constitutional and procedural process of recall to remove Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from office and declare her seat vacant.”

    Details shortly…

  • Standing for your senator or the truth?

    Standing for your senator or the truth?

    • By Samuel Jekeli

    Sir: Nigeria’s political culture has taken a dangerous turn—one where loyalty to politicians outweighs loyalty to truth. The recent clash between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has not only sparked debates but has also incited physical confrontations among their supporters. Across the country, citizens have taken to the streets, clashing violently in defence of their chosen senator, turning a political dispute into a national crisis.

    What should have been a matter for legal and institutional resolution has devolved into street fights, protests, and violent confrontations. Supporters of both Natasha and Akpabio have engaged in physical altercations, blocking roads, vandalizing properties, and threatening public safety. Rather than demanding justice and transparency, many have chosen to defend their preferred politician at any cost, even if it means harming fellow Nigerians.

    This pattern is troubling. Why should ordinary citizens bear the brunt of political disputes between individuals who, at the end of the day, will shake hands behind closed doors? The irony is that while their supporters fight in the streets, these politicians will continue to negotiate their political interests in air-conditioned rooms, unaffected by the chaos unfolding in their name.

    It is no secret that some political figures thrive on chaos. Instead of urging their supporters to maintain peace and let due process take its course, they exploit emotions, pushing narratives that incite division. Paid agents and influencers flood social media with inflammatory rhetoric, deepening the animosity between opposing sides.

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    This reckless approach to politics undermines national unity. The real question is: Should Nigerians be fighting each other over politicians who do not know them personally and who may not fight for them in return? The answer is clear—politicians should be held accountable, not idolized to the point of violence.

    Another catalyst for the escalating tension is the role of the media. Instead of promoting balanced discussions, some media outlets have chosen to amplify divisive narratives, further entrenching the battle lines. Television analysts, many of whom are paid, defend the indefensible, fuelling public outrage and encouraging confrontations.

    The media must take responsibility for its role in this crisis. Instead of serving as a propaganda tool, it should promote peace, fact-based reporting, and objective analysis. The press should not be an agent of disorder but a platform for constructive discourse.

    The Natasha-Akpabio controversy is just one example of a larger issue—Nigeria’s growing tendency to replace issue-based politics with personality-driven allegiance. While justice and fairness must be upheld, citizens must resist the temptation to engage in violent support for politicians who may not have their best interests at heart.

    Instead of taking to the streets to fight each other, Nigerians must channel their energy into demanding accountability from all leaders. The focus should be on ensuring that justice prevails, not on blindly defending individuals based on sentiment. A democracy that thrives on violence and blind loyalty is doomed to fail.

    The Natasha-Akpabio controversy should serve as a wake-up call. Nigeria cannot afford a political culture where citizens battle each other over disputes that should be settled through proper legal and institutional channels. The real battle should be against corruption, injustice, and political disorder—not against fellow Nigerians.

    As a people, we must rise above sentiment and stand for truth, fairness, and justice. The question remains: Will we continue fighting each other for politicians, or will we stand together for a better Nigeria?

    •Samuel Jekeli,

    Centre for Social Justice, Abuja

  • Why Senator Natasha made allegations against me – Akpabio

    Why Senator Natasha made allegations against me – Akpabio

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has dismissed the allegations against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing them as “useless allegations” triggered by a change in her seat within the Red Chamber.

    Akpabio also claimed the Kogi Central Senator, who has been suspended from the Senate for six months, had traumatized him and others with her accusations.

    Speaking at an event commemorating International Women’s Day on Saturday, Akpabio maintained his innocence and suggested that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims were motivated by her committee reassignment and seat relocation.

    “It was only yesterday that I realised that what we are talking about only happened when there was a change of seat,” Akpabio stated.

    “That is when hell was let loose, and all sorts of allegations came up—only after the change of seat and change of committee, which my Senators know happens from time to time.”

    Read Also: I slept in Dangote cement factory on Senator Natasha’s wedding day – Akpabio

    Referring to the timeline of events, he added: “This is said to have happened on December 8, a day before my birthday, which was celebrated in the stadium in 2023. So from December 8, 2023, I never heard, my wife never heard, no Nigerian ever heard, even her husband never heard any issue of sexual harassment—until her committee was changed, and then her seat was changed.”

    Akpabio further questioned the credibility of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations, stating that none of her past accusations had been proven.

    “Have you ever wondered about the trauma caused by that same woman to the other people she has accused in the past? None has been proven so far. Do you even wonder about the trauma this caused to the 10th Senate and the image of the Senate with all these useless allegations? I have refrained from making a statement.”

    Addressing the audience at the event, Akpabio pointed to the women present and remarked, “Look at these beautiful women. They have come across me so many times. Have I ever harassed any one of you? Or is the person thinking that you are not beautiful?”

  • FULL LIST: Seven recommendations made by Senate committee on Senator Natasha

    FULL LIST: Seven recommendations made by Senate committee on Senator Natasha

    The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions has recommended a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central. 

    The committee’s decision followed her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

    During Thursday’s plenary session, the committee advised that her salary and security details be withdrawn. 

    Presenting the panel’s report, Committee Chairman Senator Neda Imasuen outlined the following recommendations: 

    1. A six-month suspension. 

    2. She must submit a written apology before resuming. 

    3. The suspension is to take effect on March 6, 2025. 

    4. Her office will be locked, and she must hand over all government property. 

    Read Also: Senator Natasha never accused me of sexual harassment, Fayemi clarifies

    5. She must not enter the National Assembly complex during the suspension. 

    6. Her salaries, allowances, and security details will be suspended. 

    7. She will be barred from representing Nigeria in any official capacity. 

    The committee concluded that Senator Natasha was guilty of all allegations against her, stating that she failed to submit herself to the legislative committee for the review of her conduct.

  • BREAKING: Senate moves to suspend Senator Natasha for six months

    BREAKING: Senate moves to suspend Senator Natasha for six months

    The Senate is considering a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following an investigation by the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct, which found her in “total violation” of Senate rules.

    According to the committee’s recommendations, read by its chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen, the suspension would take effect on March 6, 2025.

    Read Also: Senator Natasha never accused me of sexual harassment, Fayemi clarifies

    The committee also proposed that during the suspension period, her office will be locked, and she will be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises during the suspension period while her salaries and those of her legislative aides will be withdrawn.

    The Senate is expected to vote on the recommendation, and if upheld, it would strip the Kogi Central lawmaker of all legislative privileges for the duration of her suspension.

    Details shortly…

  • Senator Natasha never accused me of sexual harassment, Fayemi clarifies

    Senator Natasha never accused me of sexual harassment, Fayemi clarifies

    The immediate past governor of Ekiti state, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has dismissed the declaration made by the lawmaker representing the Ekiti North Senatorial District, Cyril Fasuyi, that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused him of sexual harassment.

    Fasuyi had, on Wednesday during plenary, disclosed that the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial district had in the past raised allegations of sexual harassment against Fayemi amidst the ongoing investigation into the allegation against the Senate President, Godswil Akapabio.

    However, Fayemi, in a statement by the Head of Fayemi Media Office on Wednesday, described the allegation as misleading and a monumental falsehood that lacks a modicum of truth.

    The former governor said that neither Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan nor anyone else has ever accused Fayemi of sexual harassment.

    He noted that Fasuyi’s allegation was a misrepresentation of facts, adding that the senator representing Ekiti North may have inadvertently conflated the events, leading to a misrepresentation of facts.

    The statement reads, “We have become aware of a statement made by Senator Cyril Fasuyi during today’s Senate plenary, in which he alleged that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had previously accused Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State, of sexual harassment.

    “We categorically state that this claim is entirely false. At no time has Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan—or anyone else, for that matter—ever accused Dr. Fayemi of such misconduct. It appears that the Distinguished Senator from Ekiti inadvertently misrepresented the facts, as no such allegation has ever been made against Dr. Fayemi.

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    “Consequently, there is no basis for Senator Fasuyi’s further assertion that Dr. Fayemi would be submitting a petition to the Senate in this regard. We would like to believe that, in his enthusiasm to defend the Senate President, Senator Fasuyi inadvertently conflated events, leading to a misrepresentation of facts.

    “For the record, the only professional engagement Dr. Fayemi ever had with Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was during his tenure as the Honourable Minister of Mines and Steel Development, when he oversaw matters related to the Ajaokuta Steel Company. While they may have held differing views on the future of the company at the time, their interactions remained strictly within the realm of policy discussions. At no point did Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan make any allegations of misconduct against Dr. Fayemi.

    “We urge Senator Fasuyi to exercise greater diligence in verifying facts before making public statements, especially on sensitive matters that could damage reputations.

    “Dr. Fayemi remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity in public service, and we reject any attempt to tarnish his name with baseless allegations”, it added

  • Senator Natasha advocates gender equity at 2025 Munich Security Conference

    Senator Natasha advocates gender equity at 2025 Munich Security Conference

    Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has advocated for gender equity and inclusive governance in global peace and security.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan made the call at the 2025 Munich Security Conference.

    Speaking alongside global leaders like the President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, and former Prime Minister of Finland, Sanna Marin, Sen Akpoti-Uduaghan brought a unique African perspective to the conversation.

    She highlighted the struggles and triumphs of women in politics and decision-making in Nigeria and beyond, according to a statement by her Chief Press Secretary, Israel Arogbonlo, in Abuja.

    The discussion, according to the statement, focused on the increasing challenges faced by women in leadership, the resurgence of gender-based discrimination, and the role of women in peacebuilding efforts worldwide.

    The Kogi lawmaker emphasised the need to break systemic barriers that hinder women’s participation in leadership and to strengthen policies that protect women from political violence and discrimination.

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    “The backlash against gender inclusivity in politics and security is not just a setback for women; it is a setback for global development. The world must move beyond rhetoric and take concrete actions to ensure that women are not just included in peace and security discussions but are given equal opportunities to lead and influence policies,” Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan said.

    “The senator’s participation at the MSC 2025 reinforces her growing influence as a champion for women’s rights, governance reforms, and inclusive security policies. Her advocacy aligns with global efforts to push back against gender regression and ensure that women remain at the forefront of decision-making in peace and security matters.

    “As the MSC concluded, the consensus among panelists and global delegates was clear: a collective and sustained effort is needed to counteract gender backlash and empower women to shape the future of global peace and security.

    “The senator’s powerful contributions at the MSC 2025 reaffirm her position as a transformative leader, not just in Nigeria but on the global stage,” the statement added.

  • Senator Natasha calls for functional governance to curb “Japa” syndrome

    Senator Natasha calls for functional governance to curb “Japa” syndrome

    The newly appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has called for effective governance to address the rising “Japa” syndrome, which refers to the mass emigration of Nigerians seeking better opportunities abroad.

    Speaking at the committee’s inaugural meeting in Abuja, as stated by her Chief Press Secretary, Israel Arogbonlo, Akpoti-Uduaghan stressed that reversing this trend requires creating an enabling environment that encourages Nigerians to remain and invest in their country.

    She emphasized the need for structural economic reforms to retain Nigerian talent and leverage the diaspora’s potential for national development.

    “We cannot keep losing our best brains to other countries. However, the solution is not to force them to stay. People stay where opportunities are abundant, security is assured, and governance is functional. Nigeria must provide these conditions to stop the Japa syndrome,” she stated.

    To address this, the senator proposed three key strategies to include Establishing a Diaspora Investment and Development Bank

    She advocated for the creation of a Diaspora Bank, where Nigerians abroad can invest their remittances into structured projects in Nigeria.

    This bank, she said would be managed by trusted professionals, would allow diaspora contributions to be channeled into sectors like healthcare, infrastructure, and technology.

    “Diaspora remittances contribute over $21 billion annually to Nigeria’s economy. We must create a system where this wealth can be strategically invested in sectors that will drive economic growth, instead of being consumed on daily expenses alone,” she explained.

    She pointed out that countries like India and Ethiopia have successfully harnessed their diaspora by establishing industries where returning citizens can work and contribute their expertise.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan called for the development of high-tech zones, textile hubs, and manufacturing sectors, ensuring that skilled professionals can return home to viable job opportunities.

    “Nigeria must take lessons from countries like India, which dominates the global ICT sector, and Ethiopia, which has established over 80 thriving textile industries with the help of its diaspora. We must replicate these models,” she said.

    The third strategy she proposed is the creation of a Comprehensive Nigerian Diaspora Database

    The senator emphasised the importance of gathering accurate data on Nigerians abroad to properly engage, integrate, and support their participation in national development.

    She proposed working with embassies to compile data on Nigerians in America, Canada, Europe, Asia, and Africa, identifying their skills and potential contributions.

    “How many Nigerians are in America? Canada? Europe? We need to know. Data drives decision-making. We must also track how diaspora funds are used to ensure transparency and accountability,” she stated.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan also stressed the need to engage international organisations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and other global NGOs that provide funding, training, and technical expertise for development projects.

    She further announced plans to organise a Nigeria Diaspora Business Summit, where Nigerian professionals abroad can showcase their innovations, businesses, and investment opportunities in the country.’

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    “Our goal is to make Nigeria a hub where our citizens, whether at home or abroad, feel confident to invest, return, and build their future,” she concluded.

    Former Chairman of the Committee, Senator Victor Umeh praised Akpoti-Uduaghan’s leadership and expressed confidence in her ability to transform the diaspora engagement agenda.

    “She is energetic, visionary, and ready to break new ground. I am optimistic that she will drive significant reforms to maximize the potential of Nigeria’s diaspora community,” Umeh stated.

    The meeting was attended by outgoing Chairman Senator Victor Umeh, Vice Chairman Anthony Ani, and other committee members.

    The inaugural meeting marked the beginning of a new era for Nigeria’s diaspora engagement, with Akpoti-Uduaghan vowing to work closely with the Presidency, international stakeholders, and Nigerians abroad to ensure a sustainable and inclusive national development strategy.