For weeks, the red chamber has been embroiled in a triangular controversy, with verbal accusations buzzing among distinguished senators of the National Assembly. One name has remained at the center of this storm – Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District. For those unfamiliar with the origins of the name Natasha, they may not grasp its significance or the admiration it commands. The name Natasha evokes two perspectives among the people—one that appreciates its importance and another that attributes unnecessary controversy to it.

Historically, Natasha is a name given to girls born on Christmas Day or on the birthday of the Lord. It is primarily a Russian name, derived from the Latin Natalia, which comes from the phrase Natale Domini. The name is often associated with anticipation, as parents hope for great contemporary influence from their children. One cannot deny the physical, mental, and social attributes of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in her political career—both in Kogi State and at the national level. The intense scrutiny and challenges she currently faces in the Senate can be described as an agony of honour, rejection or political maneuvering. The accusations against her have been framed in different narratives, shaping public opinion in various ways. Given the diverse perspectives surrounding the issue, I would like to highlight some key elements regarding the discussions that have dominated the media space in the past few weeks.

To begin with, the rule of law must take its course with the recent controversy in the Senate revolving around seat allocation and the resulting reaction of the distinguished Senator which ignited tensions between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Seat allocation has long been a routine aspect of Senate politics, making it unsurprising that disputes have arisen. However, Natasha’s direct confrontation with the Senate President, through unguarded utterances, was seen as a breach of decorum and order of the Senate. While she had valid grievances, proper protocol demanded that she raise them through appropriate channels before her accusers did—this ultimately led to discussions of her suspension.

Next, the misuse of gender-related accusations, wherein a particularly contentious aspect of this saga is the claim of sexual harassment, a phrase often misused and interpreted within gender discourse. We cannot ignore the reality that some men abuse their positions, preying on women without remorse. However, harassment can also be as simple as an unwelcome touch or an exaggerated claim, as seen in past cases like the UNIZIK lecturer-student scandal. While gender inequality is a genuine concern, emotions must not overshadow factual and legal assessments. Since this case is now in court, the final judgment will be awaited.

After that, the justification of suspension and legal precedents. The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been justified by some on the grounds of repeated breaches of Senate Standing Orders 55(1). The Senate’s Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions Committee cited Section 14(2) of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act 2017—signed into law by former President Muhammadu Buhari—to recommend her suspension. However, the Nigerian judiciary, through several High Court and Court of Appeal rulings, has consistently declared such suspensions of elected legislative members for a period exceeding 14 legislative days illegal. Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has described Natasha’s suspension as the “zenith of legislative wilderness.”

Given the historical context, the Senate has had to tread carefully, especially in light of past allegations of sexual harassment in the chamber. For instance, former Senator Dino Melaye once openly declared that he would impregnate his colleague, Senator Remi Tinubu (now First Lady of Nigeria), in response to an accusation of impotence. If such remarks went unpunished, then the Senate risks undermining the very principles of law and order it is meant to uphold. When allegations arise, the accused should not act as both judge and jury—fair judgment should be delivered through due legal processes, not external pressure. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s decision to take her case to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), framing her suspension as a broader attack on women in politics, has drawn international attention to the matter.

In addition, the role of media and public perception is crucial. However, on the part of Senate President Akpabio, his media aides have not effectively managed the controversy, failing to present a clear and professional defense. Instead, they have engaged in back-and-forth accusations, including claims of budget padding. Meanwhile, Akpabio has enjoyed unwavering support from his colleagues, who have fought fiercely to protect the integrity of the legislative body they represent.

Natasha, on the other hand, has garnered significant public sympathy. Her suspension has left the people of Kogi Central without representation in the Senate for six months, prompting her legal counsel, Victor Giwa, to challenge it in court. Advocacy groups championing women’s political inclusion have also rallied behind her, coinciding with the celebration of International Women’s Day. As Charlie Webster argues in his book Why It’s OK to Talk About Trauma, discussing one’s struggles can help alleviate mental burdens. Natasha’s vocal stance can thus be seen as a sign of resilience.

Finally, upholding the law beyond gender politics. Ultimately, gender should not be used as a shield to evade the law. Laws must be obeyed and respected, regardless of the position or status of the individual involved. Former Senator Shehu Sani once remarked that if a senator speaks too loudly, they risk isolation—something we can now observe in the unfolding drama within the red chamber. In the broader context of women’s representation in Nigerian politics, can we attribute Natasha’s dispute with Senate President Akpabio solely to gender bias?

After all, women like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Arunma Oteh, Oby Ezekwesili, Uche Ekwunife, and Florence Ita-Giwa have succeeded in navigating the political landscape. Could there be deeper political undercurrents at play? Only time will tell. But for the sake of national progress, such disputes should be resolved thoroughly rather than allowing them to linger as distractions.

*Temitayo writes from Benin City, Edo State, and can be reached on muhtay99@gmail.com