Akpabio
A mild drama ensued in the upper house on Thursday as Senate President Godswill Akpabio ordered the removal of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) for refusing to relocate to a reassigned seat.
Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno reported that Natasha defied the seat adjustment, which followed the defection of two opposition senators to the ruling APC.
Citing Senate rules, the Chief Whip affirmed Akpabio’s authority to reassign seats and deny recognition to senators not seated properly.
Natasha, who insisted her privileges were violated, accused Akpabio of silencing her and blocking her bills.
She further challenged the senate president’s decision, saying: “I don’t care if I am silenced. I am not afraid of you.”
As Akpabio ordered her removal, fellow senators, including Austin Akobundu, intervened, preventing a forceful ejection.
With tensions high, Kogi Senate Caucus Chairman Isa Jibrin apologized on her behalf.
After a heated standoff, Natasha relented, and proceedings resumed.
