The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has stated that it will consider both sides of the case involving suspended Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio before taking any action.
The IPU President, Dr. Tulia Ackson, made this known in New York on Tuesday after Senator Natasha raised her suspension issue during the Women in Parliament session.
Natasha had called for justice and the intervention of global democratic institutions, insisting that her suspension from the Senate was unlawful.
She further claimed that her outspokenness in New York could put her at risk upon returning to Nigeria, alleging that “the powers that be” might attempt to detain her.
Natasha’s suspension followed a heated exchange with Senate President Akpabio over a new seating arrangement in the Senate chamber.
The disagreement escalated when Akpabio refused to recognize her contribution at plenary for not speaking from her reassigned seat.
The matter took a more serious turn when Natasha went on national television to accuse Akpabio of sexual harassment, stating that he was punishing her for rejecting his alleged advances.
She also submitted a formal petition detailing her allegations against the Senate President.
Following this, the Senate suspended her, citing a violation of its seating arrangement rules.
However, Natasha maintains that her suspension was a direct response to her sexual harassment complaint.
Responding to Natasha’s appeal at the IPU session, President Tulia Ackson assured that the matter would be examined carefully, emphasizing the need for fairness by hearing from both sides.
“We have heard her concerns, and it would be appropriate for us to gain a broader understanding of the issue because so far, we have only listened to her side,” Ackson said.
“As an institution, the IPU will not only take her concerns into account but will also ensure that the other side is given an opportunity to present their perspective, as is our custom. Once we have gathered all necessary information, we will take the appropriate steps.”
Ackson noted that she chose to address Natasha’s case at the conclusion of the session to prevent a one-sided narrative from shaping public perception.
