The Network of Women for Sustainable
Development (NeWSD) has condemned what it was was ‘the illegal and unjust suspension’ of Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan from the Nigerian Senate for six months.
According to the group, the suspension ‘represents a grave violation of democratic norms and a deliberate attempt to silence a courageous voice advocating for justice, equity, and transparency.’
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing the KogiCentral Senatorial District, was suspended following her protest during a Senate plenary session over the reassignment of her seat. The Senate Committee on Ethics and Public Petitions recommended the suspension, effective March 6, 2025, citing alleged misconduct. The entire Senate adopted this recommendation.
NeWSD, in a statement issued at the weekend, said the suspension violates the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), particularly:
- Section 36(1): “In the determination of his civil rights and obligations, including any question or determination by or against any government or authority, a person shall be entitled to a fair hearing within a reasonable time by a court or other tribunal established by law and constituted in such manner as to secure its independence and impartiality.”
- Section 39(1): “Every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.”
“The arbitrary suspension of Senator Natasha without a fair hearing and due process undermines these constitutional guarantees,” it stated. “It also sets a dangerous precedent capable of silencing dissenting voices, especially those of women in leadership.
” As the world marks International Women’s Day, a time to honor women’s contributions and reaffirm gender parity, NeWSD stands in unwavering solidarity with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
” Her suspension is not only a personal affront but a blow to the collective voice of women fighting for a more inclusive and just society.”
Dr. Salamatu Jidda-Fada, Founder and Director of NeWSD, said:
“The suspension of Senator Natasha AkpotiUduaghan is a gross miscarriage of justice and a direct affront to democratic principles and constitutional rights. We stand unequivocally with her and call for her immediate reinstatement. This is about defending democracy and protecting the voices
of women in leadership.”
Dr. Jophia Gupar, President of the Pan African
Young Women Development Initiative, also said: “This issue transcends Senator Natasha, it’s about ensuring that women in politics are not intimidated into silence. What message are we sending to young women who aspire to serve in public office?”
NeWSD echoes this concern and urges all Nigerians, especially women and progressive allies to rise against this injustice and defend the sanctity of our democratic institutions, the statement said.
