SENATOR NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN CLAIMS SENATE PRESIDENT AKPABIO IS TRYING TO SILENCE HER
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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of orchestrating moves to sideline her voice in the Nigerian Senate. According to her, the latest tactic involved relocating her seat to an almost invisible corner of the chamber, making it harder for her to actively participate in legislative discussions.
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A PATTERN OF ALLEGED HARASSMENT
In a candid conversation on Berekete TV, the senator revealed that this seat reassignment was just one of many challenges she has faced. She claimed that since the controversial nightclub incident last year, she has been systematically excluded from important political and international engagements.
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“I have endured a series of unfair treatments but chose to stay quiet to avoid unnecessary controversies or legal battles. Many of my privileges have been revoked, and I have been deliberately removed from high-profile international events. Even a United Nations event where I was nominated saw my name abruptly struck out, with claims that I shouldn’t be given international recognition.”
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Frustrated by these limitations, Akpoti-Uduaghan disclosed that she has resorted to personally funding her participation in crucial global events to represent her constituents and advocate for Nigerian women.
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A STRATEGIC MOVE TO SUPPRESS HER VOICE?
The senator explained that while she was already seated at the back of the chamber, her position was unexpectedly changed to an even more remote location—one where the Senate cameras would barely capture her.
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“Where you sit in the Senate matters. The closer you are to the front, the more chances you have to be noticed and invited to contribute to debates. But I have now been pushed to a position where I am practically invisible.”
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PUBLIC OUTCRY AND POLITICAL IMPLICATIONS
Her claims have triggered widespread debate, with many Nigerians expressing outrage over what they perceive as an attempt to stifle opposition voices. Some see it as a broader issue of political intimidation, especially against women in leadership. However, others argue that seating arrangements are routine adjustments and should not be exaggerated.
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As the controversy unfolds, political analysts warn that such internal power struggles could deepen divisions within the Senate and fuel tensions between the ruling APC and opposition PDP.
