Inside Story: Natasha Reveals True Motive Behind Hosting Akpabio And Senate Leaders

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has clarified that her invitation to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other lawmakers for the commissioning of constituency projects in Kogi State was made strictly in line with legislative protocol and parliamentary tradition.

In a statement released on Thursday, Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that her decision to route the invitation through the Senate President adhered to established procedures.

“As is customary for such official announcements, I wrote a formal letter to the Senate through the presiding officer for the Senate President to read on the floor,” she stated.

Marking her second year in office, the senator emphasized that the event was not a personal celebration but a reflection of her commitment to effective representation and public service.

“The invitation was to ensure inclusivity — not to celebrate in isolation. I’m a progressive leader. Despite ongoing court proceedings, I remain committed to my duties and to following due legislative processes,” she said.

She underscored that her actions stem from respect for institutional order and a drive to improve the welfare and development of her constituents.

“This is not about personal recognition; it’s about acknowledging the collective achievements of public service,” she added.

Her clarification follows public discourse surrounding her recent return from suspension by the Senate.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 for six months following the adoption of a report by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, after a confrontation with Senate President Akpabio on February 20 over seating arrangements — an altercation that later sparked allegations of sexual harassment, which Akpabio denied.

She was reinstated on September 24 and has since resumed full legislative duties, sponsoring several key initiatives, including a bill to establish a National Centre for Autism and six zonal centres nationwide.

The proposed legislation seeks to enhance early diagnosis, research, education, and care for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) across Nigeria.