ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Senator Ireti Kingibe of the Federal Capital Territory has said she never saw the committee report that led to the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, adding new uncertainty to a decision that has already drawn sharp criticism.
Kingibe told Arise Television that she was attending a tax reform retreat when the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions considered the report. She said she signed the attendance register but left for the retreat, which she believed was more important for her constituents. Kingibe added that she later complained to colleagues, including Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, about not having access to the document.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension has triggered widespread debate and legal challenges, with critics questioning the fairness of the process. Senator Adams Oshiomhole alleged earlier this week that at least three signatures on the report were forged or improperly included, while Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described the suspension as one of the lowest moments of the 10th Senate.
The controversy highlights broader concerns about transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s legislature. Analysts warn that disputes over procedure and representation risk undermining public trust in democratic institutions, a challenge with implications beyond Nigeria as parliaments worldwide face scrutiny over how disciplinary actions are handled.
Civil society groups have also voiced concern, saying the suspension could set a troubling precedent for silencing dissenting voices in parliament. Legal experts note that if allegations of forged signatures are proven, it could raise constitutional questions about the validity of the Senate’s decision. Meanwhile, supporters of Akpoti-Uduaghan argue that the suspension undermines her constituents’ right to representation, while others within the chamber insist disciplinary measures are necessary to maintain order.
The matter is expected to remain contentious as the Senate faces mounting pressure to review its internal processes and ensure greater transparency in future disciplinary actions.
