By Ahmed Muhammad Dan Asabe Lokoja
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, was at the center of a controversy in the Senate on Thursday, as she accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of trying to silence her. The drama unfolded during a plenary session, when Senator Natasha protested the sudden change of her seat without her consent.
Chief Whip Senator Mohammed Ali Monguno quickly raised a point of order, drawing attention to her “improper seating position”, in what appeared to be an orchestrated move to intimidate her. However, Senator Natasha refused to back down, asserting her rights and demanding answers. "I don't care if I am silenced, I am not afraid. You have denied me my privilege. Mr Senate President, ever since the night-club incidence, you have deliberately silenced my voice," she said.
Her bravery and determination to stand up for herself and her constituents have been hailed as a testament to her commitment to justice and democracy. This is not the first time Senator Akpabio has been accused of using strong-arm tactics to silence his colleagues. Last year, he sparked controversy when he used a nightclub term to describe the Senate’s decision-making process, saying “You see Senator Natasha, in the chamber, you have to be recognized before you speak. We’re not in a nightclub”.
Thursday’s incident has sparked renewed concerns about Senator Akpabio’s leadership style and his willingness to listen to opposing views. Senator Natasha, on the other hand, has been a vocal advocate for her constituents, particularly in her efforts to promote infrastructure development in Kogi Central. Her refusal to be silenced has made her a powerful voice in the Senate.
In response to the incident, Senator Isah Jibrin (APC, Kogi East) attempted to mediate, offering an apology on behalf of Natasha. Senator Sunday Karimi (APC, Kogi West) also expressed his displeasure over the incident, stating that his privilege had been breached. Akpabio acknowledged Karimi’s grievance, saying, "Distinguished Senator Karimi, I can see that you feel deeply hurt by what transpired this morning. This is the Nigerian Senate, where accomplished and mature individuals are gathered".
Akpabio urged for restraint, saying, "Let us not take this further by referring it to the Committee of the Whole. Let us focus on why we were elected. The matter will be addressed at the appropriate time. I appeal to you to temper justice with mercy and forgive. Insults are part of leadership".
Tags
Breaking News