Criticism Trails Senator Natasha Uduaghan’s Conduct in Senate

Fresh controversy has erupted in the Senate following criticisms directed at Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, with political observers accusing her of frequently invoking her gender during plenary sessions to seek sympathy or push her positions.

A trending commentary circulating on social media has compared Senator Uduaghan’s conduct with that of past and present female lawmakers, describing her approach as “unbecoming of a parliamentarian.”

Between 1999 and 2023, Nigeria’s Senate has witnessed the contributions of several accomplished female legislators, including Florence Ita-Giwa, Oluremi Tinubu, Gbemisola Rukayat Saraki, Daisy Danjuma, Grace Folashade Bent, Uche Ekwunife, Binta Masi Garba, Abiodun Olujimi, Aisha Binani, Rose Oko, and Monsurat Sunmonu all of whom were commended for their legislative poise, experience, and respect for parliamentary procedures.

Currently, only four women serve in the 10th Senate Ireti Heebah Kingibe (FCT), Ipalibo Banigo (Rivers West), Idiat Adebule (Lagos West), and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central).

However, according to critics, Senator Uduaghan’s frequent exclamations of “I am a woman” during debates have drawn concern among her colleagues and political commentators, who argue that such rhetoric undermines the professionalism and decorum expected in the Senate chamber.

“Of all these distinguished women who have served in the Senate since 1999, only one constantly reminds us of her gender whenever she wants to speak. Natasha seems to believe that by shouting ‘I am a woman,’ the rules should be bent in her favor.

It is unfortunate,” one commentator wrote under the hashtag #SWA.

While some Nigerians have defended the senator’s passion as a reflection of the challenges women face in politics, others believe that emotional appeals should not replace adherence to parliamentary rules or legislative experience.

Political analysts say the development underscores the growing scrutiny of female political participation in Nigeria, where women’s representation remains low despite decades of advocacy for gender inclusion.

Senator Uduaghan, who has been vocal on issues of governance and social justice, is yet to respond publicly to the criticisms.