Senator Adeola Critiques Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Actions Towards the Nigerian Senate

Senator Solomon Adeola criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for her attempts to position herself above the Senate amid her suspension due to protocol violations. He urged the International Parliamentary Union (IPU) not to be swayed by her allegations of political victimization. Adeola affirmed the Senate’s integrity and the necessity of adhering to constitutional guidelines while rejecting claims of oppression among female senators.

Senator Solomon Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, expressed strong opposition to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, remarking that she should not position herself above the Senate. His statements were made amid a vote of confidence in Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which followed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims of political victimization presented at a United Nations forum.

The conflict began after Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension on March 6 due to confrontations regarding a seating arrangement, which she believed undermined her position. She escalated tensions further by accusing Akpabio of retaliating against her for rejecting his alleged sexual advances during a television broadcast.

During a Women in Parliament session at the International Parliamentary Union meeting in New York, Akpoti-Uduaghan sought international support for accountability from the Nigerian Senate. In contrast, Senator Adeola maintained that her suspension was justified due to her flagrant breaches of Senate protocol and the Constitution of Nigeria.

Adeola stressed that all senators must abide by the Constitution and Standing Orders, declaring that Akpoti-Uduaghan failed to utilize internal mechanisms to resolve her grievances. Furthermore, he affirmed that her ongoing litigation against the Senate prevents her petition from being considered until judicial resolution.

Moreover, Adeola denounced Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment accusations against Akpabio, suggesting that such serious claims necessitate substantial evidence to avoid undermining the Senate’s integrity. He countered claims of oppression among female senators, asserting that all members receive due respect and protocol inside and outside the chamber.

He commended Khafilat Oghara, the House Committee Chairperson on Women Affairs, for her commitment to truth within the IPU. Adeola urged the IPU not to be manipulated into actions that could tarnish the parliament’s democratic standing, praising its president for not uncritically accepting Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations. Lastly, he reiterated that Akpoti-Uduaghan will remain suspended pending either her compliance with suspension terms or a court ruling.

In conclusion, Senator Solomon Adeola’s remarks underscore the importance of respecting Senate protocols and the constitutional framework guiding legislative actions in Nigeria. The ongoing dispute between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate highlights issues of accountability, conduct, and the integrity of parliamentary processes. Furthermore, Adeola’s assertions regarding the treatment of female senators suggest a need for continued dialogue on gender representation and respect within legislative bodies. It is imperative for institutions like the Inter-Parliamentary Union to consider the complexities of local governance without succumbing to external pressures.

Original Source: punchng.com