The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti, describing it as a politically motivated attempt to silence dissenting voices within the Nigerian Senate. The party alleged that Senate President Godswill Akpabio orchestrated the move as part of a broader effort to cover up allegations of misconduct leveled against him.
Senator Akpoti, a vocal critic of Akpabio and an advocate for gender equity, was recently suspended from the Senate following a heated debate over accusations of sexual harassment. Her suspension has sparked outrage across political circles and civil society groups, with many describing it as an abuse of legislative power.
In a statement issued by the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, the party described Akpoti’s suspension as an attack on democracy, free speech, and the integrity of the legislative institution. The party insisted that rather than addressing the allegations against him in a transparent manner, Akpabio and his allies have resorted to intimidation tactics to suppress the truth.
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) unequivocally rejects the illegal suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti. This move is nothing but a desperate attempt by Senate President Godswill Akpabio to shield himself from accountability,” the statement read.
The PDP further alleged that the Senate's leadership failed to follow due process in suspending Akpoti, calling on civil society organizations and Nigerians to resist what it described as a dangerous precedent that could undermine democracy.
Beyond the political backlash, Senator Akpoti's suspension has fueled a broader debate about gender representation and the treatment of women in Nigerian politics. Many women's rights groups have rallied behind her, arguing that her ordeal reflects the systemic challenges women face in asserting their rights within the country’s political space.
Meanwhile, calls for an independent investigation into the allegations against Akpabio have intensified, with opposition lawmakers and rights activists demanding transparency and justice.
As the controversy continues, political analysts suggest that the unfolding drama may have far-reaching implications for the credibility of the Nigerian Senate and the broader democratic landscape. Many believe that how this issue is handled will determine the extent to which the country’s political institutions can uphold principles of fairness, accountability, and justice.