The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned what it described as an attempt by the acting Clerk of the National Assembly to block Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her duties at the Senate after completing a six-month suspension.
According to reports, the Clerk had written to the senator stating that she could not return to legislative activities until a court case relating to her suspension was concluded.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP described the action as a calculated move by the Senator Godswill Akpabio-led APC Senate leadership to deny the people of Kogi Central their constitutional right to representation. The party said the move not only violates the Constitution and Senate Standing Rules but also poses a “clear and present danger” to democracy.
The PDP further alleged that the development reflects a pattern of harassment and intimidation of women in politics, citing longstanding accusations against Senate President Akpabio.
“The extreme persecution of a six-month suspension unjustly imposed on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is more than enough. Any further attempt to keep her away from the Senate is provocative and undemocratic,” the statement read.
The party urged the Clerk of the National Assembly to withdraw the letter and remain neutral, warning against being used as a political tool to undermine democracy. It also called on the international community, democracy institutions, and rights advocacy groups to speak out against the alleged persecution.
PDP charged Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to disregard the Clerk’s letter and prepare to resume her duties, insisting that the Senate leadership must allow her to perform her role as an elected lawmaker without hindrance.
