Politics
Political Crisis Erupts as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Vows Legal Battle Against Suspension
Political Crisis Erupts as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Vows Legal Battle Against Suspension
In a dramatic escalation of political tensions within Nigeria’s Senate, Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to challenge in court the six-month suspension imposed on her following a heated confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The controversial suspension, which has drawn widespread condemnation, stems from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio and her refusal to adhere to the red chamber’s seating arrangement directives.
Legal Showdown Looms
Victor Giwa, legal counsel to the embattled senator, dismissed the Senate’s resolution as unconstitutional, arguing that it directly violates a subsisting court order. Speaking to The PUNCH on Thursday, Giwa confirmed that legal action would be pursued against the Senate for its defiance of the judiciary.
“The suspension is void and illegal,” Giwa declared. “The Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges disobeyed a valid court order that restrained them from taking further action. This is a direct affront to the rule of law.”
Giwa further disclosed that the case is set to resume in court within two weeks, during which they will highlight the Senate’s disregard for the judiciary. He warned that the chamber’s actions undermine democratic principles and set a dangerous precedent.
National and International Condemnation
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and opposition political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, have denounced the Senate’s decision as an abuse of power. Legal analysts argue that Akpoti-Uduaghan was denied fair hearing, a fundamental breach of her constitutional rights.
Huwaila Muhammad, Chairperson of the NBA Women Forum, sharply criticized the process, stating, “This suspension is nothing but a political maneuver aimed at silencing a female senator who dared to challenge authority. The entire matter should have been handled in the interest of justice, ensuring she was given a fair hearing before any decision was reached.”
Power Play in the Senate
The suspension, enforced without pay, was imposed after the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of allegedly breaching Senate rules. Her punishment includes the withdrawal of security details, the locking of her office, and a complete ban from legislative activities. The committee further stated that any reconsideration of her suspension would be contingent on a written apology to the Senate President—a recommendation later amended to take effect only after the completion of her six-month suspension.
However, Akpoti-Uduaghan has remained defiant, rejecting the suspension as an orchestrated plot to muzzle her for speaking out against Akpabio. “This injustice against me will not stand. I will fight against it,” she declared before being escorted out of the chamber by security personnel.
The Akpabio Connection: A Personal Betrayal?
In an unexpected twist, Akpabio revealed that he had previously attended Akpoti-Uduaghan’s wedding, insinuating a personal connection to her husband, Emmanuel Uduaghan. This revelation has fueled speculation that the senator’s suspension may be driven by personal vendettas rather than legislative decorum.
Meanwhile, the Senate’s decision to strip her of security aides but retain the salaries of her legislative staff has sparked mixed reactions. While some lawmakers, including former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, attempted to intervene, Akpabio remained resolute, rejecting any motion to reconsider her suspension.
Implications for Democracy
As political observers weigh in, concerns are mounting over the broader implications of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension. Many view it as an assault on free speech and a blatant attempt to suppress dissent within Nigeria’s legislature. Critics warn that this move could embolden future abuses of power, setting a troubling precedent for female lawmakers and opposition voices.
With the legal battle set to unfold, the world watches closely. Will the judiciary uphold the rule of law, or will political maneuvering continue to overshadow Nigeria’s democratic processes? One thing remains clear: Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is not backing down, and this political firestorm is far from over.
Politics
APC Group Endorses Fubara for 2027, Calls on Tinubu and APC to Prioritise Performance Over Politics in Backing Governor’s Second Term Ambition
*APC Group Endorses Fubara for 2027, Calls on Tinubu and APC to Prioritise Performance Over Politics in Backing Governor’s Second Term Ambition*
The APC National Vanguard has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to support a second term in office for Siminalayi Fubara, citing what it described as “impressive and verifiable developmental strides” across Rivers State.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its National President, Dr Gbenga Salam (JP), the group said its position followed an extensive assessment tour of key infrastructure and public service projects executed under the Fubara administration.
The APC National Vanguard said the appeal was based strictly on performance, arguing that governance outcomes should outweigh partisan considerations, particularly in a state as economically significant as Rivers.
“We respectfully urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress to support the continuity of Governor Siminalayi Fubara beyond his current tenure, in recognition of his commitment to development, prudent resource management, and people-focused governance,” the statement read.
According to the group, its delegation visited multiple project sites across the state, observing ongoing and completed works spanning road construction, urban renewal, and public infrastructure upgrades.
It noted that the scale and distribution of these projects reflect a deliberate effort by the state government to extend development beyond traditional urban centres and into underserved communities.
“Our findings from the tour reveal a government that is not only active but intentional in its development agenda. The execution of capital projects across various parts of Rivers State demonstrates a clear understanding of the needs of the people and a commitment to addressing them,” Dr Salam said.
The group particularly commended what it described as prudent financial management by the administration, noting that the projects reviewed showed evidence of careful planning and efficient allocation of resources.
“At a time when economic pressures are evident across the country, it is commendable that the Rivers State government has managed its resources in a way that delivers visible and impactful development without signs of fiscal recklessness,” the statement added.
The APC National Vanguard further observed that despite political tensions in the state, the Fubara administration has maintained focus on governance, ensuring continuity in project execution and service delivery.
The group argued that such stability is critical for sustained development and should be encouraged rather than disrupted.
“Leadership must ultimately be judged by results. In Rivers State, there is clear evidence of progress—projects that are not only announced but executed, and policies that translate into real benefits for citizens,” Dr Salam noted.
The group warned that discontinuity in leadership could stall ongoing projects and reverse gains already recorded, stressing the importance of allowing a performing administration to consolidate its achievements.
“Rivers State is at a pivotal stage where continuity will allow for the completion of ongoing initiatives and the deepening of development gains. Supporting Governor Fubara for a second term is, therefore, a decision in the best interest of the people,” the statement said.
In addition to its call on the APC leadership, the group reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu, expressing confidence in his administration’s broader economic and governance reforms.
The APC group urged Nigerians to remain supportive of efforts aimed at stabilising the economy and strengthening public institutions.
“We reiterate our endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, in recognition of his leadership and commitment to national development. With sustained support, the administration can consolidate its reform agenda for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Dr Salam added.
The APC National Vanguard concluded by calling on political actors to prioritise development and public interest over partisan divides, insisting that governance should always be guided by performance and accountability.
“Where leadership demonstrates prudence, delivers development, and remains focused on the welfare of the people, it deserves continuity. This is the position we have reached after a careful and independent assessment of Rivers State,” the statement added.
Politics
Renewed Hope Ambassadors Shift to Grassroots Mobilisation Ahead of 2027
*Renewed Hope Ambassadors Step Into the Next Phase
Fresh from the successful APC 2026 National Convention, the Renewed Hope Ambassadors National, Zonal, and State leadership gathered in Abuja over the weekend, for its fourth strategic meeting, setting the tone for nationwide grassroots activation ahead of 2027.
Chaired by Governor Hope Uzodinma (Imo State) the Director General and National Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, alongside Deputy Director-General, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, and Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State as Secretary, the session reinforced one clear direction: One Party. One Message. One Mobilization whilst also laying out a strategic roadmap for the activation of the network across all communities in Nigeria.
Backed by the strength of 31 APC-led states, the Renewed Hope Agenda is taking Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message of progress and reform to every corner of Nigeria.
From bold economic restructuring to initiatives like NELFUND, the increase in the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, and strategic investments in critical sectors, including PNiCGI, the mission remains clear: helping Nigerians understand both the purpose and the progress of the Renewed Hope vision.
This is coordination at scale. This is grassroots engagement with purpose. This is the next phase of Renewed Hope with One Party, One Message, and One Mobilisation framework
#RenewedHopeAmbassadors #APC #WeAreAPC
Politics
Governor Bago Inaugurates APC Digital Media Sub-Committee Ahead of National Convention
Governor Bago Inaugurates APC Digital Media Sub-Committee Ahead of National Convention.
Governor Umaru Bago has inaugurated the Digital Media Sub-Committee for the forthcoming National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC), scheduled to hold on March 27 and 28, 2026 in Abuja.
Chairing the sub-committee, Governor Bago tasked members with the responsibility of effectively communicating the party’s manifesto to the public.
He emphasized the need to leverage social media platforms to highlight the achievements and ongoing efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that communication gaps have posed challenges that must now be decisively addressed.
The Co-Chair of the sub-committee, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, echoed the Governor’s position, urging members to project the activities of both the party and the government to a broader audience.
He called for a deliberate and coordinated effort to showcase the party’s achievements and policy direction, stressing the importance of shaping a compelling and consistent narrative across all digital platforms.
Delivering a presentation to the committee, Otega Ogra, SSA to the President on New Media, who serves as Secretary of the sub-committee, outlined strategic focus areas to guide the team’s operations.
His presentation highlighted communication priorities and actionable steps to achieve the committee’s mandate and strengthen the party’s digital engagement.
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