Kinsmen of Senate President Godswill Akpabio have expressed dissatisfaction with Natasha, the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The Senate imposed the suspension on Thursday, citing a breach of its standing orders following her claim of sexual harassment against Akpabio.
The Atai Afe Annang, His Majesty Obong Blaise Awakama, flanked by other elders of Annang descent, stated that the suspension was not enough punishment for the embattled senator. They argued that Natasha should have been recalled by her constituents and given proper guidance.
Awakama emphasized that every senator represents a people, and as Senate President, Akpabio represents not only the Annang Nation and Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District of Akwa Ibom State but the entire nation. He warned that no female senator should be used to defame Akpabio.
The elders also cautioned against any attempt to remove Akpabio from office, stating that they would not sit idly by and watch such a move succeed. They stressed that a false claim of sexual harassment should not be used as a tool for political persecution.
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Natasha’s suspension has sparked widespread controversy, with many criticizing the Senate’s decision. The senator has vowed to challenge the suspension in court.
The Senate’s action has also been condemned by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and other civil society groups. They argue that the suspension is an attempt to silence Natasha and undermine her rights as a senator.
Akpabio’s supporters, however, have rallied around him, praising his leadership and integrity. They argue that Natasha’s allegations are baseless and motivated by politics.
