The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a stern warning to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to immediately reverse the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan or face legal action. The organization described the suspension as a blatant violation of Natasha’s rights and an affront to the rule of law.
In a statement released by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization expressed concerns that the suspension was a deliberate attempt to silence Natasha and prevent her from performing her legislative duties. SERAP argued that the suspension was arbitrary, unfair, and in clear violation of Section 47 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees the right to fair hearing.
SERAP also emphasized that the suspension was a breach of the principles of natural justice, as Natasha was not given a fair hearing before the decision was taken. The organization pointed out that the Senate’s action was in defiance of a court order, which had explicitly halted any disciplinary action against Natasha.
The statement read in part: “The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a flagrant disregard for the rule of law and the principles of natural justice. It is unacceptable that the Senate would take such a drastic action without giving her a fair hearing”.
SERAP has given Akpabio a seven-day ultimatum to reverse the suspension, failing which the organization would take legal action to challenge the decision. The organization has also called on the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, to intervene in the matter and ensure that justice is served.
The suspension of Natasha has generated widespread outrage, with many condemning the move as an assault on democracy and an attempt to silence women in leadership. The controversy has sparked a national debate on women’s rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
As the clock ticks on SERAP’s ultimatum, all eyes are on Akpabio and the Senate leadership to see how they will respond to the demand to reverse Natasha’s suspension. Will they heed the call and restore Natasha’s rights, or will they face the consequences of legal action? Only time will tell.
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