Senate Spokesman Yemi Adaramodu has criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for her outburst in the chamber over a seating arrangement dispute. Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, refused to take her assigned seat, citing Order 10 of the Senate Standing Rules that protects members’ privileges.
The dispute began when her seat was reassigned due to opposition members switching to the majority wing. Akpoti-Uduaghan resisted the relocation, speaking out loudly and accusing the leadership of trying to silence her. Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for security to remove her, but fellow lawmakers intervened to prevent further escalation.
Adaramodu later stated that the Senate is not a platform for entertainment, but for serious business. He emphasized that lawmakers should maintain decorum and respect for the institution. Adaramodu’s comments were seen as a rebuke to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s behavior, which some deemed unbecoming of a senator.
Despite the controversy, it appears that the matter has been resolved. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Kogi colleague, Senator Isah Jubril, apologized on her behalf, and the Senate accepted the apology, ruling out disciplinary action. The incident highlights the complexities and challenges of legislative politics in Nigeria.
