Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Calls Out Nigerian Senate: A Culture Of Fear And Intimidation

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Blasts Senate as a 'Secret Society'

It’s not every day that a former lawmaker throws the spotlight on the inner workings of Nigeria's Senate, but that’s exactly what Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan did. In an explosive interview with BBC Hausa, the suspended Kogi Central Senator likened the Nigerian Senate to a "secret society." She painted a vivid picture of an institution where dissenting voices are muffled, and fear reigns supreme, particularly when it comes to challenging Senate President Godswill Akpabio's authority.

According to Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Senate has become a place where senators are so intimidated that they shy away from expressing opposing views. The fear of losing opportunities, privileges, and even their voice in the chamber has left many lawmakers hesitant to speak up. It’s like a silent agreement where everyone nods along, even if they don’t agree, just to keep the peace and preserve their place in the Senate.

Akpoti-Uduaghan went on to elaborate during the BBC Hausa interview, shedding light on the toxic culture she claims exists within the Senate. She revealed that those who dare to challenge the Senate President’s decisions often face retaliation, finding themselves sidelined in future legislative matters. It’s a chilling accusation that suggests the Senate might not be the democratic institution it claims to be but rather a place where power plays dictate the rules.

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“There is this culture of fear among the senators. If you dare to criticize the Senate President or express a differing opinion, you risk having all opportunities blocked, and you will not be allowed to speak,” she explained. Her words carry weight, as they point to a system where intimidation silences even the most courageous voices.

Allegations of Inappropriate Behavior by Senate President Akpabio

Beyond the allegations of a stifling culture, Akpoti-Uduaghan also made some serious claims about inappropriate behavior by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She recounted specific incidents that paint a disturbing picture of how some senators, including Akpabio, allegedly treated her. These stories reveal what she believes is a deeper issue within the Senate—an environment where professional boundaries are blurred and inappropriate comments are made with impunity.

She shared an incident where she forgot to wear her wedding ring one day while rushing to the Senate. Instead of a simple reminder or understanding, she was met with unwarranted teasing from no less than five senators. They allegedly made suggestive comments, saying, “Natasha, why aren’t you wearing your wedding ring? Is there another way of betraying your husband?” It’s an example of how casual yet deeply inappropriate remarks can create a hostile workplace environment.

Her account doesn’t stop there. She also alleged that Akpabio himself made suggestive comments toward her. She recounted a moment when he said, “Natasha, your husband seems to be enjoying you, and you might be able to twist that beautiful waist of yours…” This kind of behavior, she claims, was met with laughter from other senators, further normalizing such inappropriate conduct within the Senate walls.

Senate Deputy Majority Leader Denies Allegations

Not everyone is on board with Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations. The Senate Deputy Majority Leader, Senator Onyekachi Nwokedi, swiftly denied the allegations, labeling them as baseless. In his defense, Nwokedi stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s behavior in the Senate does not reflect the situation she described. He argued that her claims don’t hold up under scrutiny, suggesting that the Senate is not the oppressive environment she portrays.

“There was never a time the Senate President made any attempt to harass Senator Akpoti at his home or made any inappropriate statements in the Senate,” Nwokedi said, dismissing her narrative outright. He also rejected the notion that the Senate has become a “cult” where members are silenced, asserting that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s portrayal doesn’t align with reality.

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“Natasha’s behavior in the Senate does not reflect that. There was never a time the Senate President made any attempt to harass Senator Akpoti at his home or made any inappropriate statements in the Senate,” Nwokedi added, reinforcing his stance that the Senate remains a place of professionalism and respect.

As the debate unfolds, one thing is clear: the Senate's credibility is on the line. Whether Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims hold water or not, her bold statements have sparked a much-needed conversation about accountability, transparency, and the need for a more inclusive and respectful legislative environment in Nigeria.