Natasha Opens Up on Purpose Behind Inviting Akpabio, Senators

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, has said that her invitation to Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, and other lawmakers to commission constituency projects in Kogi State was in complete accordance with parliamentary custom and practice.

The senator clarified in a statement released on Thursday that she adhered to parliamentary custom by sending the invitation through the presiding officer.

“I wrote a letter to the Senate through the presiding officer to the Senate President to read on the floor today, as is customary for announcements of such nature,” she stated.

This week marks Akpoti-Uduaghan’s second year in office. She stated that the invitation was an attempt to emphasize her dedication to inclusive representation and public service rather than a personal celebration.

In order to avoid giving the impression that I was celebrating alone, I sent out the invitation. I consider myself to be progressive. I continue to perform my duties in the chamber and adhere to the correct procedures despite current judicial issues,” she stated.

The congressman emphasized that her choice demonstrated her commitment to institutional respect and due process, and that her impending project launches were a part of her ongoing efforts to enhance the well-being of her residents.

“This is about celebrating the accomplishments of public service, not about personal recognition,” she said.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s explanation coincides with increased public awareness following her recent return from the Senate’s suspension.

On March 6, the Senate adopted the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions’ findings, which resulted in the Kogi senator’s six-month suspension.

Her suspension came after she and Senate President Akpabio got into a heated argument on February 20 about seating arrangements. The argument then turned into charges of sexual harassment, which Akpabio strongly denied.

After completing her suspension, she was reinstated on September 24 and has since started actively participating in legislative proceedings.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has supported a number of projects since her return, such as a bill to create six zonal centers throughout Nigeria and a National Center for Autism.

Early diagnosis, research, education, and care for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are the goals of the proposed legislation.