The Senate has commenced an investigation into the conduct of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan during last Thursday’s plenary session. The matter has been referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions for further inquiry.
The issue arose when Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, raised a point of order. He expressed concern over misleading media reports regarding the events that unfolded in the Senate last week and emphasized the need to safeguard the integrity and future of the legislative body.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Minority Leader Abba Moro, and Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, among others, criticized the conduct displayed by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan during the plenary session. They recommended that the matter be referred to the appropriate committee for further investigation.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio reminded lawmakers of the importance of adhering to Senate rules. Citing Order 66(2) and Section 55 of the Senate Rules, Akpabio underscored that all senators must conduct themselves with decorum during sittings. He highlighted prohibitions against chewing gum, drinking water, or engaging in disruptive behavior while the Senate is in session.
Following deliberations, senators voted to refer the matter to the Ethics Committee for investigation. The committee has been tasked with reporting its findings back to the Senate within two weeks.
This development underscores the Senate’s commitment to maintaining discipline and upholding the integrity of its proceedings.
