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. 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 recognised before you speak. We’re not in a nightclub”. The comment was widely criticised as dismissive and condescending.
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.
