A former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Rowland Owie, has condemned the suspension of the Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, for six months.
PUNCH Online reports that the Senate slammed a six-month suspension on the Kogi lawmaker following her face-off with the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, over seating arrangements in the Red Chamber.
The upper legislative chamber suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan over the breach of its Standing Orders following her claim of sexual harassment, an allegation that Akpabio denied.
Speaking with reporters on Thursday in Abuja, Owie warned that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension may undermine the Senate integrity.
The former lawmaker cautioned that legislative impunity could set a dangerous precedent, stressing that no senator should be denied their mandate arbitrarily.
“We are not in a Banana Republic. A senator remains a senator anytime, any day, even when suspended or as a non-serving senator. The 10th Senate must exercise caution to preserve the integrity of the institution,” Owie said.
Owie stated that the sexual harassment allegation levelled against Akpabio must be thoroughly investigated, emphasising the need for due process.
“I have always warned that the 10th Senate must be careful to avoid sinking the Upper Chamber. If issues are brought before the Senate, there must be thorough investigations—nothing should be swept under the carpet. Ordinarily, the President of the Senate ought to step down to allow for an impartial investigation,” he added.
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