Natasha’s Suspension: Lawyer Accuses Senate Of Double Standards
A former Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, Douglas Ogbankwa, has faulted the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate, describing the action as a clear case of “double standards.”
Ogbankwa, in a statement issued on Tuesday, argued that the Senate’s decision lacked fairness and transparency, noting that other lawmakers accused of more grievous misconduct had never been subjected to such disciplinary measures.
“The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan smacks of selective justice. The Senate has failed to apply the same yardstick to other members whose alleged offences are more serious,” the lawyer said.
He stressed that legislative bodies, being the custodians of democracy, must uphold principles of equity and fair hearing, rather than allow political interests to dictate disciplinary actions. According to him, punishing some lawmakers while shielding others erodes public confidence in the National Assembly.
Ogbankwa further maintained that the suspension not only undermines the representation of Kogi Central Senatorial District but also raises constitutional questions about the limits of the Senate’s disciplinary powers.
“The people of Kogi Central voted for Natasha to be their voice. By suspending her, the Senate has effectively silenced the will of the people, which in itself is undemocratic,” he added.
He urged the leadership of the Senate to review the decision and ensure that justice is applied evenly, warning that the precedent being set could deepen mistrust between the electorate and the legislature.
Senator Natasha, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended last week over allegations of misconduct during plenary. Her camp has since maintained that the sanction was politically motivated.
