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Senate Leader Reflects on Natasha Suspension, Calls It a ‘Lowest Moment’ for the 10th Senate
Bamidele has admitted that Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension hurt the Senate’s public image and fueled criticism about unity and representation.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has openly acknowledged that the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan marked one of the most challenging periods for the 10th Senate, saying the episode negatively affected public perception of the National Assembly.
Speaking at events marking the Senate’s third anniversary in Abuja, Bamidele described the six-month suspension of the Kogi Central senator as a regrettable chapter that fueled concerns about unity within the chamber and its treatment of women in politics.
According to him, the controversy represented “one of the lowest moments for the Senate” and was “not a happy moment” for the institution.
The Senate leader, however, argued that the legislative body had recorded significant accomplishments despite the setback, particularly through collaboration with the executive branch on economic reforms and governance.
“…But as for achievements, I want to say that this Senate has done a lot in working with the executive arm of government to stabilise this economy through the laws that we have made,” Bamidele stated.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 after a confrontation during plenary proceedings over seating arrangements. Following recommendations from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, lawmakers approved sanctions that included the closure of her office, suspension of salaries and allowances, withdrawal of security protection and restrictions on benefits for her aides.
She returned to the Senate in September 2025 after serving the six-month suspension.
The decision generated widespread debate at the time, drawing criticism from civil society groups, lawyers and constituents who considered the punishment disproportionate.
Political analysts have since interpreted Bamidele’s latest comments as an indication that the Senate may have underestimated the public backlash generated by the suspension.
The remarks have also reignited discussions about the need for clearer, fairer and more transparent disciplinary processes within Nigeria’s legislative institutions.
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