By Zara Maisango
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has strongly condemned the Nigerian Senate’s suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling it an illegal act that undermines democratic principles and fosters a dangerous culture of silence.
Adeyanju, in a public statement, decried the decision as a blatant violation of Akpoti's rights and a deliberate attempt to suppress dissent. "Even if her allegations were frivolous, the Senate had a duty to investigate them thoroughly. Instead, we see a rushed decision that raises serious questions about the integrity of the Senate’s investigative process," he said.
At the heart of the controversy are allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who has been accused of sexual harassment and inappropriate remarks. Adeyanju noted that Akpabio should have been allowed to appear before the Senate Ethics Committee, cross-examine Akpoti, and defend himself properly. "Sweeping such serious allegations under the carpet only emboldens impunity and signals that the Senate prioritizes political convenience over justice," he added.
The lawyer also pointed out a glaring conflict of interest in the investigation. "The chairman of the Ethics Committee, who was publicly defending Akpabio days before the inquiry, presided over the investigation against Natasha. Akpabio cannot be a judge in his own case," he argued.
Adeyanju criticized the lack of due process in the proceedings, likening it to the controversial midnight electoral result announcements that have marred Nigeria’s democracy. "Neither Natasha nor Akpabio was allowed to appear before the committee. This is a sham process designed to intimidate and silence voices of accountability," he said.
Encouraging Senator Akpoti to challenge her suspension in court, Adeyanju reminded her that women who push for change often face institutional resistance. "By suspending Natasha for six months, the Senate has effectively robbed the people of Kogi Central of representation. The Senate leadership must remember that they are merely first among equals, not rulers who can dictate who gets to serve the people," he asserted.
Adeyanju urged Akpoti to stand firm against what he described as bullying, harassment, and intimidation. "The Senate has no right to suspend her. The democratic process that brought its members to power is the same one that elected Natasha. She must resist this injustice and fight for her mandate," he concluded.
Deji Adeyanju Esq. is a Human Rights Lawyer and Managing Partner at Deji Adeyanju & Partners.