In a post on his X handle on Tuesday, Utomi denounced the Senate’s actions, asserting that the suspension was more of a political vendetta than a genuine disciplinary measure. He questioned why Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former lawmaker Dino Melaye, who had engaged in similarly controversial behavior, were never subjected to such harsh penalties.
“Akpabio and Dino Melaye have been involved in worse misconduct than what they accused her of, yet they escaped similar consequences,” he wrote.
A Flawed Process That Undermines Democracy
Utomi criticized the Senate for bypassing due process and failing to grant Natasha a fair hearing before rushing through the suspension. He likened the proceedings to a “kangaroo court” and warned that such actions erode democratic principles.
“The reckless disregard for fair hearing in this rushed, unjust process makes a mockery of democracy,” he stated.
He further accused the Senate of openly flouting court rulings that prohibit the suspension of National Assembly members, questioning the institution’s respect for the rule of law.
Silencing Kogi Central: A Blow to Representation
Utomi also lamented that the suspension effectively robs Kogi Central voters of their rightful representation, highlighting that female lawmakers are already underrepresented in the Senate.