Emmanuel OchayiSince 1999, the Nigerian Senate has suspended several lawmakers over different allegations, including misconduct, fraud, and controversial statements. These suspensions often stemmed from violations of legislative protocols and accusations that brought the Senate into public disrepute. The most recent senator suspended is Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Over the years, six others have faced similar disciplinary actions.
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Join our WhatsApp ChannelNatasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Suspended in 2025
On March 6, 2025, the Senate suspended Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. The decision followed a recommendation from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions. The committee, chaired by Neda Imasuen, found her guilty of violating Senate Standing Rules.
Her suspension was linked to her protest over the reallocation of her seat in the chamber and public statements that allegedly discredited the Senate. Lawmakers viewed her actions as misconduct, leading to a vote in favour of her suspension.
During the suspension period, Akpoti-Uduaghan is barred from all legislative activities. The Senate emphasised that disciplinary actions were necessary to maintain order.
Abdul Ningi’s Suspension in 2024
The Senate suspended Senator Abdul Ningi on March 12, 2024, for three months. His suspension followed allegations that the 2024 budget was padded by N3 trillion. In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, he claimed that Nigeria was operating two different budgets—one approved by the National Assembly and another allegedly implemented by the presidency.
His statements led to intense debates in the Senate, prompting Senator Solomon Adeola to propose disciplinary action. The Senate approved his suspension, and he later resigned as chairman of the Northern Senators Forum.
Ovie Omo-Agege’s Suspension in 2018
Ovie Omo-Agege, a former deputy Senate president, faced suspension in 2018. His opposition to the election reordering bill led to accusations that he brought disrepute to the Senate.
Although he later apologised, he sought legal action against the Senate’s decision, which further angered his colleagues. This resulted in an extended suspension.
Ali Ndume Suspended in 2017
In 2017, the Senate suspended Ali Ndume for six months over allegations of misconduct. Ndume had called for an investigation into allegations involving then-Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Senator Dino Melaye.
He claimed Saraki’s bulletproof car had been seized by the Nigerian Customs Service and that Melaye had forged his academic certificate. After an investigation, the Senate panel cleared both Saraki and Melaye, leading to Ndume’s suspension for what was seen as an attempt to embarrass his colleagues.
Arthur Nzeribe’s Indefinite Suspension in 2002
The late Arthur Nzeribe was indefinitely suspended in November 2002 under the leadership of Senate President Pius Anyim. His suspension was linked to allegations of a N22 million fraud.
Throughout his political career, Nzeribe was known as a controversial figure, and his suspension added to his long history of political battles.
Joseph Waku’s Suspension in 2000
Joseph Waku, a senator from Benue State, was suspended in 2000 after making a controversial statement suggesting that a military coup would be preferable to former President Olusegun Obasanjo continuing in office.
His statement drew widespread criticism, leading the Senate to suspend him for making remarks deemed dangerous to Nigeria’s democracy.
Femi Okurounmu, the First Senator Suspended in 1999
In 1999, Femi Okurounmu became the first senator suspended since 1999 in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. He was accused of making statements about a planned impeachment of then-President Olusegun Obasanjo.
His allegations caused tension in the Senate, prompting disciplinary action. His suspension set a precedent for future cases of misconduct in the legislative body.
Suspensions Reflect Senate’s Disciplinary Measures
The suspensions of these seven senators highlight how the Senate enforces discipline among its members. Over the years, accusations ranging from budget padding to fraud and controversial public statements have led to disciplinary actions.
With Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as the latest senator to face suspension, the pattern of enforcing order in the Senate continues.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
