The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio to immediately reverse the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling it “patently unlawful” and a violation of her right to freedom of expression.
In a statement, SERAP demanded the senator’s immediate reinstatement and a review of parliamentary procedures that limit lawmakers’ rights.
The Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months last week, citing her alleged violation of legislative rules, including speaking without permission and refusing to occupy her designated seat. Her salary and allowances were also withheld, and she was prohibited from representing herself as a senator during the suspension period.
In an open letter dated March 8, 2025, signed by SERAP’s deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization condemned the Senate’s decision, stating, “No one should ever be punished for ‘speaking without permission.’ Being a senator does not deprive Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan of her fundamental human rights.”
SERAP emphasized that the Senate should set an example in upholding the rule of law rather than suppressing fundamental freedoms. The organization argued that her suspension not only violates her rights but also discourages other senators from freely expressing themselves.
The letter further warned that if the Senate does not act within 48 hours, SERAP will take legal action to compel compliance. The group insisted that the application of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 must align with constitutional and international human rights standards.
“The unlawful restriction of Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan’s right to freedom of expression also indirectly violates Nigerians’ right to receive information and undermines her constituency’s right to political participation,” the letter stated.
Citing legal frameworks, SERAP referenced Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, all of which guarantee freedom of expression.
According to SERAP, Akpoti-Uduaghan was accused of “persistent acts of misconduct, blatant disregard for Senate rules, and gross indiscipline.” She allegedly spoke without being recognized by the presiding officer and refused to sit in her assigned seat during a plenary session on February 25, 2025.
However, SERAP insists that her suspension is a disproportionate response that undermines democratic principles, calling for its immediate reversal.
