Tension Erupts In Senate As Akpabio, Natasha Exchange Words During Heated Abortion Bill Session

A tense moment unfolded in the Senate on Tuesday when Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) engaged in a heated exchange during deliberations on the Criminal Code Amendment Bill.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The proposed legislation, presented by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, seeks to increase the punishment for anyone supplying drugs or instruments used in abortion procedures—from three years’ imprisonment to 10 years without the option of a fine.

According to its sponsors, the bill aims to update Nigeria’s Criminal Code Act to reflect the country’s evolving social, moral, and medical realities.

However, the debate quickly grew contentious as senators clashed over what should constitute an unlawful abortion.

Senator Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central) argued that abortion might be justifiable in certain medical or religious circumstances, warning that an outright ban could have grave consequences.

Similarly, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) cautioned that the bill could discourage medical professionals from providing critical healthcare or life-saving interventions, urging the Senate to suspend discussions for wider consultations.

Following the heated exchanges, Akpabio ruled that further deliberations be halted and referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for review.
“The committee should examine the contentious provisions and report back within two weeks,” he directed.

The motion was unanimously adopted through a voice vote.

Natasha Blocked from Speaking

Moments after Akpabio’s ruling, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to contribute to the debate, appealing for recognition.

“Mr. Senate President, please may I speak? I am a woman, and this issue concerns women. It is very important, sir,” she pleaded.

But Akpabio maintained that the matter had already been “stepped down in totality.”

Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) then raised a point of order, warning that allowing Natasha to speak after the gavel had fallen would violate Senate procedure.
“If you grant the exemption to Senator Natasha, you must extend it to the rest of us. In the end, we will have no rules,” Oshiomhole cautioned.

Akpabio agreed, citing Rule 52 (Subsection 6) of the Senate Standing Orders, and ruled Natasha out of order.

“I rule Senator Natasha out of order,” he declared firmly.

“I Was Denied a Voice” – Natasha Reacts

Speaking after plenary, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed frustration at being prevented from contributing to a debate she described as deeply personal and significant.

“I’m disappointed I wasn’t allowed to speak on an issue that directly affects women,” she told TheCable.
“I’m a woman, a mother, and I believe I should have been recognised—especially since only two of us women, myself and Senator Banigo, were present during plenary. My hand was up throughout the debate.”

Despite the setback, she vowed to present her position when the bill returns to the committee for further review, reaffirming her commitment to advocating for women’s rights and health issues in the Senate.