Senate’s Refusal to Reinstate Natasha Undermines Democracy – IPAC Secretary

The National Secretary of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), High Chief Peter Ameh, has faulted the Senate for barring Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming legislative duties despite the expiration of her six-month suspension, describing the move as a grave threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, Ameh warned that the Senate’s action, led by President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio, risks pushing the country toward a one-party system while depriving the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District of representation.

“It is embarrassing that our democracy is being hijacked by those who do not understand its core values freedom of expression and the right of every constituency to be represented,” he said. “To use legislative authority to settle personal scores is a dangerous abuse of power.”

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 for alleged gross misconduct. On September 4, she wrote to the Clerk of the National Assembly, notifying him that her suspension had lapsed. However, Acting Clerk Dr. Yahaya Danzaria responded that the matter remained before the Court of Appeal and could not be administratively resolved.

Ameh dismissed the Senate’s stance, arguing that the suspension carried a definite timeline and had legally expired. He also criticised the judiciary for failing to rule promptly on the matter, accusing it of enabling “tutelary tyranny” that undermines elected representatives.

Beyond Natasha’s case, the IPAC Secretary raised broader concerns about shrinking political space, citing recent disruptions of opposition rallies in Lagos and Kebbi States. “The APC is afraid of 2027 because Nigerians have rejected them. If they truly believe they can win, why suppress opposition? The ballot will be a referendum on their leadership,” he stated.

Ameh urged the Senate to immediately reinstate Akpoti-Uduaghan, stressing that silencing a senatorial district over political disagreements sets a dangerous precedent. “Our democracy is not served when an entire constituency is left without a voice,” he warned.

His remarks add to growing criticism from civil society organisations and opposition parties, who argue that prolonged suspensions erode public trust and weaken Nigeria’s democratic institutions.