Former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Rowland Owie, has denounced the six-month suspension of Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The Senate imposed the suspension following a dispute between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements in the Senate chamber.
The suspension was also due to accusations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan of sexual harassment against Akpabio, which he denied.
In an interview with reporters in Abuja, Owie expressed concern that the suspension could tarnish the Senate’s reputation. He warned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent for legislative impunity, emphasizing that no senator should be arbitrarily deprived of their mandate.
“We are not in a Banana Republic. A senator remains a senator at all times, whether suspended or no longer serving. The 10th Senate must act cautiously to preserve the integrity of the institution,” Owie said.
Owie also called for a thorough investigation into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment allegations, stressing the importance of due process.
“I have always warned that the 10th Senate must tread carefully to avoid undermining the Upper Chamber. Any issue raised must be thoroughly investigated—nothing should be swept under the carpet. Ideally, the Senate President should step down for an impartial investigation,” he added.
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