7 Things Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Will Miss During Her Suspension
As Nigerian Senate suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, for six months.
The suspension, which takes effective from March 6, 2025, following the recommendations from the Senate Committee on Public Conduct, Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which found her in “total violation” of Senate rules.
Meanwhile, her suspension will also come with significant consequences.
As a result of the Senate’s decision, she will be deprived of several privileges and responsibilities that come with her position.
Here are seven key things she will miss during her suspension:
1. Legislative Participation and Debates
As a suspended senator, Akpoti-Uduaghan will not be able to partake in plenary sessions, sponsor bills, or contribute to legislative discussions. This means she loses her platform to advocate for her constituents in Kogi Central on pressing national matters.
2. Her Office and Staff Support
With her office sealed, she will lose access to the workspace and the support staff that assist her in executing her duties. This will make it difficult to engage in official legislative activities or continue constituency-related work.
3. Salary and Allowances
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One of the most immediate impacts of her suspension is the loss of her salary and allowances. Without these financial benefits, she will have to personally fund any political engagements or constituency projects she wishes to pursue during the suspension period.
4. Influence in Senate Committees
Senators play key roles in committees that influence national policies. Her suspension means she will no longer be able to contribute to committee work, make recommendations, or shape legislative decisions for six months.
5. Physical Access to the National Assembly
The Senate’s decision to bar her from the National Assembly premises means she will not be able to attend meetings, interact with fellow lawmakers, or directly address legislative concerns within the premises.
6. Visibility in National Politics
Being an active senator keeps politicians in the public eye. With her suspension, her visibility in political discourse may decline, which could impact her influence, especially in upcoming political contests.
7. Constituency Representation in Key Decisions
With her suspension, the people of Kogi Central risk losing direct representation in key legislative decisions. Although other senators may advocate for the region, her constituents will not have their elected voice actively participating in national policymaking.
Will She Apologize or Challenge the Decision?
For the suspension to be lifted or reduced, this According to a statement signed by Kenny Okolugbo, from the Communication and Strategy Department of the Office of the Senate President Akpoti-Uduaghan must submit a written apology to the Senate
