The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned the Senate’s alleged obstruction of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return following the end of her six-month suspension. The ADC decried the move as abusive and an affront to democratic norms.
ADC’s Scathing Reproach
The ADC, in an official statement released on Wednesday, pressed the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to allow Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to resume her legislative duties immediately—pointing out that her suspension had formally expired.
Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, blasted the stripping away of the senator’s salary, aides, and office access during her suspension. He argued these are vital tools for public service, not perks to be withheld.
Democratic Rights Under Threat
Describing the obstruction as malicious and indefensible, the ADC warned that prolonging her exclusion sets a dangerous precedent: sidelining elected representatives despite expired sanctions undermines the voice of the electorate.
Abdullahi warned: “To deprive an elected senator of her essential instruments of service isn’t discipline—it’s institutional mugging.”
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The ADC emphasized that what is at stake isn’t just one seat—it’s the principle that voters’ choices should be upheld above internal politicking.
Gender Implications
Highlighting the broader implications for women in politics, the ADC underscored that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is one of just four female senators among 109. It noted that actions resembling gender-based intimidation effectively send a chilling message to women considering public service.
Demand for Immediate Reinstatement
In strong terms, the ADC demanded that the Senator be reinstated to her position without further delay. The party vowed to stand firm in defense of democratic values and women’s political inclusion.
