Drama Erupts in the Nigerian Senate
On Wednesday, a dramatic scene unfolded in the Nigerian Senate as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, abruptly walked out during a budget defense session for the Ministry of Steel. The incident occurred amid a tense exchange with Senator Patrick Ndubueze of Imo North, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Steel Development.
Heated Confrontation Over Budget Defense
The confrontation arose during an interactive dialogue with the Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, following nearly four hours of deliberation. As the session drew to a close, Ndubueze signaled for an end to questioning by striking his gavel, prompting Akpoti-Uduaghan to object vigorously.
Claims of Disrespect and Rights to Speak
“Do you mind if I do so?” Akpoti-Uduaghan asked, insisting on her right to provide further input. Ndubueze, maintaining his authority as chair, responded, “Distinguished, let us call it a close for the Minister.” The back-and-forth escalated, with Akpoti-Uduaghan asserting, “I still have something to say, and I think you should respect me enough.”
Frustrations Boil Over
As the exchange intensified, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed her frustration, stating, “I think you’ve disrespected me more than enough. You can’t do this to me. I have something very vital to interface with the Minister.” This strong assertion underscored her commitment to contributing to the committee’s discussions, which she felt had been insufficient.
Significance of the Incident
The dramatic walkout highlights ongoing procedural tensions within Nigeria’s Senate, drawing attention to the complexities of legislative discourse. Akpoti-Uduaghan, being one of only four female senators in the current Senate, has positioned herself as a vocal advocate for women’s rights and economic development. Her actions in the session reflect the challenges faced by female lawmakers in a male-dominated environment.
Previous Controversies
This is not the first time Akpoti-Uduaghan has found herself at the center of controversy. In March 2025, she was suspended for six months over allegations of gross misconduct related to a seating arrangement dispute. The suspension included the withdrawal of her salary, allowances, and security aides, which lasted until September 2025.
Legal Battles and Allegations
Akpoti-Uduaghan has also previously accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, although this claim was dismissed on procedural grounds by the Senate ethics committee. The legal battles surrounding her suspension were upheld by the Court of Appeal, confirming the Senate’s constitutional authority over such matters.
Conclusion
The recent events in the Senate reflect both the personal challenges faced by Akpoti-Uduaghan and the broader issues of respect, representation, and procedural adherence in Nigeria’s legislative processes. As discussions continue surrounding the budget and the management of ministry affairs, the implications of this incident will likely resonate within the Senate and beyond.
Watch the video here:
𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎: 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐦𝐞, 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐚 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧
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