•Natasha and Akpabio
The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has said it will take the necessary steps on the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Nigerian Senate after hearing from both parties involved in the matter.
The assurance came from IPU President, Tulia Ackson, in response to a petition presented by the Kogi Central lawmaker during the Women in Parliament session at the union’s meeting, reports Nigerian Tribune.
Senator Natasha had earlier appealed to the IPU and the United Nations to intervene in what she described as a case of political victimisation.
She claimed her suspension was triggered by a petition she submitted alleging sexual harassment against the President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio.
She also alleged that her suspension came with several restrictions, including the withdrawal of her security, official vehicles and salary, as well as a ban on her appearance at the National Assembly.
Addressing the assembly, the IPU President acknowledged the concerns raised by Senator Natasha and confirmed that the organisation had taken note of the issues presented.
She, however, stressed that a fair approach requires hearing from the other side before any decision is taken.
She noted that while the Nigerian delegate was unable to speak during the session due to time constraints, the IPU remains committed to considering all perspectives before proceeding further.
Ackson said, “There was a matter that arose during the first session which we had this morning. The matter that was raised by our colleague from Nigeria, Senator Natasha, and because all of us heard what she said, it only serves us better if I put a word in what she has said.
“So I would like to say we have heard her concerns, and having heard her, it would have been an opportunity for all of us to understand more about what she has said, but because we listened only on her side, as an institution, as IPU, we will be taking the concerns that have been raised, not only taking her side, but also giving a chance to listen to the other side, as it is a custom for IPU. And after having listened to the other side, we will take steps as necessary.”
She, however, assured that, “IPU will be taking this matter as we usually do when such concerns are raised in meetings like this.”
