The Nigerian Senate has once again found itself at the center of controversy, as it suspends Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months in a move that has sparked heated debates on transparency, accountability, and political retaliation. Her suspension comes on the heels of a revelation by former Senator Shehu Sani, who recently recounted how he narrowly escaped a similar fate years ago after exposing lawmakers' salaries and allowances.
On Wednesday, the Senate adopted the recommendations of its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, suspending Akpoti-Uduaghan for alleged misconduct. According to reports, the senator had accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment after what she described as an unfair reassignment of her seat. The Senate, however, framed her suspension as a disciplinary measure, barring her from accessing the National Assembly, cutting off her salary, and sealing her office.
As Natasha’s suspension made headlines, Shehu Sani took to social media to offer a chilling reminder of the Senate’s intolerance for whistleblowers and dissenting voices. "When I publicly disclosed the salaries and allowances of the Senators, it nearly earned me a SIX-month suspension if not for Divine Intervention. Just know that if you are there and you blow the whistle too loudly, you will be 'On your Own,’ no senator go bring him head and neck to support you," he posted.
Sani’s experience dates back to 2018 when he revealed that senators received a staggering N13.5 million as "running cost" in addition to their official salary of N750,000. The disclosure sparked public outrage and nearly led to his suspension, an outcome he managed to escape through what he described as divine intervention. His post, coming just as Natasha faced Senate wrath, appears to be a veiled message to those who believe the legislative body operates with fairness and accountability.
The cases of Sani and Natasha highlight a disturbing pattern in the Nigerian Senate, where those who challenge the status quo or expose internal dealings face swift retaliation. While Sani’s ordeal was rooted in financial transparency, Natasha’s case delves into gender politics and alleged abuse of power. Both, however, serve as cautionary tales about the cost of speaking out within Nigeria’s highest legislative chamber.
Natasha, while being escorted out of the chamber, vowed that "this injustice will not be sustained," a sentiment echoed by Sani’s warning that senators will not risk their positions to stand with whistleblowers. The question now is whether the public outcry over Natasha’s suspension will force a reconsideration, or if, as Sani suggests, she will be left to fight alone.
For Nigerians observing these events, the message is clear: the Senate is a place where silence is rewarded, and defiance comes at a heavy price.