By John Alechenu, Abuja
Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has described the six-month suspension of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as one of the lowest moments of the 10th Senate, admitting that the incident negatively affected the chamber’s public image.
Speaking at events marking the third anniversary of the 10th Senate in Abuja, Bamidele said the episode was regrettable and had created a perception of disunity and insensitivity within the upper legislative chamber.
According to him, the suspension was “one of the lowest moments for the Senate” and “not a happy moment,” as it fuelled criticism that the institution lacked cohesion and adequate regard for women representation.
He, however, noted that despite such challenges, the Senate recorded significant legislative progress in collaboration with the executive arm to stabilise the economy and support national development.
“…But as for achievements, I want to say that this Senate has done a lot in working with the executive arm of government to stabilise this economy through the laws that we have made,” he said.
Senator Natasha was suspended in March 2025 following a heated confrontation during plenary over seating arrangements. Acting on the recommendations of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, the chamber imposed a six-month suspension.
The sanctions included closure of her office, suspension of salaries and allowances, withdrawal of security details, and restriction of benefits to her legislative aides during the period.
She returned to legislative duties in September 2025 after the suspension elapsed. The decision had drawn criticism from civil society groups, legal practitioners, and constituents who described the punishment as excessive.
Reactions to Bamidele’s comments have continued, with some political observers describing them as an implicit acknowledgment that the episode was mishandled, while constituents in Kogi Central said it validated long-standing concerns about fairness and representation.
Calls have also been renewed for clearer and more transparent disciplinary procedures in legislative institutions to prevent similar controversies in the future.
