The Nigerian Senate has responded to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) regarding the suspension of Kogi lawmaker Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, asserting that it was due to gross misconduct and not related to her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had brought her case before the IPU in New York, claiming injustice. The IPU assured her that they would investigate her complaints after hearing from all parties involved. In response, the Nigerian Senate, through a letter from Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, refuted Senator Natasha’s claims. The letter was presented by Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, Chairperson of the House of Representatives committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, who was attending the event in an official capacity.

According to the Senate's letter, “Senator Natasha-Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for gross misconduct and unruly behaviour and not as a result of allegation of sexual harassment or assault.” The Senate firmly denies any misinformation suggesting the suspension was tied to sexual harassment allegations, stating that it was solely due to her persistent misconduct and disregard for Senate Standing Orders.

Honorable Ogbara called for a comprehensive probe into Senator Natasha’s allegations against Akpabio, while also asserting that all necessary procedures under the Senate rules were followed before the suspension. The suspension of Senator Natasha has sparked debates across the country. She had initially submitted a petition accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment, which was rejected before her suspension, even after she submitted another petition.

Senator Natasha has vowed to continue fighting against injustice. Akpabio has denied the accusations, maintaining that he has never assaulted women. Their conflict reportedly began on February 20, 2025, when her seat was changed during a plenary session. This was not their first disagreement, as in July 2024, Akpabio reportedly told her to adhere to Senate rules, stating that the Senate was not a nightclub. He later apologized for the remark.