Senator Solomon Adeola criticized Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for her attempts to challenge the Senate’s authority and urged the IPU not to be manipulated in this matter. His statements followed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations of political victimization and claims of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Adeola stated her suspension was valid, based on procedural violations, and affirmed the Senate’s commitment to maintaining order and integrity.
Senator Solomon Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for attempting to overshadow the Senate. He urged the International Parliamentary Union (IPU) not to allow itself to be used as a tool for blackmail against Nigeria’s National Assembly following a vote of confidence in Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Amid an ongoing dispute, Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused Akpabio of political victimization, which she raised at a UN forum. Her conflict began after she was suspended on March 6 due to a confrontation with the Senate leadership over seating arrangements, which she claimed were meant to undermine her.
Akpoti-Uduaghan has publicly alleged that Akpabio punished her for rejecting his sexual advances, escalating tensions. During a Women in Parliament session, she called for international intervention to hold the Nigerian Senate accountable. In response, Adeola stated her suspension was justified due to a violation of Senate Standing Orders and Nigeria’s constitution.
He emphasized the need for senators to adhere to established procedures and claimed Akpoti-Uduaghan failed to address her grievances through the Senate’s internal mechanisms. Additionally, he remarked that her lawsuit against the Senate bars her petition from being considered until adjudicated in court.
Adeola also criticized the assertion of sexual harassment claims against Akpabio, asserting that such allegations require substantial evidence and only serve to undermine the Senate. Contrary to claims of oppression, he maintained that all senators, including women, receive appropriate respect and recognition.
He expressed appreciation for Khafilat Oghara, the House of Representatives Committee Chairperson on Women Affairs, for her commitment to truth. Adeola called on the IPU to reject any actions that would undermine the status of parliamentary democracy and praised its president for discerning the motives behind Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations. He concluded that the Kogi senator would remain suspended until she meets the terms for reconsideration or a court ruling intervenes.
Senator Solomon Adeola’s statements emphasize that the Nigerian Senate functions under strict adherence to legal standards and internal protocols. He cautioned the IPU against becoming a tool for political maneuvering. Adeola’s comments reflect the Senate’s stance against unsubstantiated allegations, and he reinforces the respect accorded to all senators regardless of gender. The ongoing situation with Akpoti-Uduaghan illustrates the complexities of political accountability within Nigeria’s legislative framework.
Original Source: punchng.com
