Natasha Akpoti reports Akpabio to Inter-Parliamentary Union in New York

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi central, has reported Senate President Godswill Akpabio to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

She spoke at the IPU meeting held at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Tuesday.

Speaking at the Women in Parliament session, Natasha informed the IPU of her alleged victimisation by Akpabio.

In an emotional speech, the senator sought justice and called for the intervention of global democratic institutions.

“I come with a heavy heart from Nigeria. But first, I will like to apologise to Hon. Kafilat Ogbara. I am not here to bring shame to our country, I am here to seek help for the women of Nigeria,” she told assembly.

“Five days ago, on the 6th of March 2025, I was suspended as a senator illegally because I submitted a petition of sexual harassment against the president of the Nigerian senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

“I thought by submitting the petition, he would recuse himself and both of us would submit ourselves to the committee of ethics, privileges and public petitions for a fair and transparent investigation.

“But unfortunately, I was silenced, and I was suspended for six months among many other stringent conditions, such as taking away my security, taking away all the official vehicles and other items that were handed over to me as a senator.

“My salary would be cut off. I must not appear anywhere near the national assembly.

“And for six months, I am not to present myself as a senator locally in Nigeria and internationally. I am here illegally, and I have no other place to go but to come here”.

She said her suspension is not just about her, but about the exclusion of women in political leadership in Nigeria.

“This is a clear case of political victimization, punishment for speaking out against impunity, corruption and gender-based violence,” she added.

After her speech, she expressed worry about her security.

The Kogi Central lawmaker claimed there are indications that she may be held against her will in New York for speaking up on the issue at the global event by “the powers that be” from Nigeria.

Recall that on March 6, the Nigerian Senate announced Senator Natasha’s suspension following recommendations from its Committee on Ethics, Rules, and Code of Conduct.

As a consequence of her suspension, she will not receive a salary, will be barred from entering the National Assembly premises, and will not be allowed to refer to herself as a senator during the suspension period.

The suspension was preceded by her outburst against Akpabio over the seating arrangement at the senate chamber.