TMG Condemns Recall Attempt on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Calls for Investigation into Allegations Against Senate Leadership
Maryam Aminu
The Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) has strongly condemned the recent attempt to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, describing the process as a politically motivated charade and a threat to Nigeria’s democratic values.
In a press briefing led by its Chairman, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), TMG expressed deep concern over what it described as a desperate attempt by certain political actors to silence the senator following a public altercation with the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
“The unfolding events are not only embarrassing but also reflect poorly on the nation’s leadership. The speed and manner in which these events escalated into a recall process suggest a clear agenda to suppress Senator Natasha,” the statement reads.
TMG noted that while disagreements in the National Assembly are not uncommon, the Senate leadership’s handling of this particular case has raised serious red flags. According to the group, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations of sexual harassment, abuse of power, and infringement on her legislative duties deserve thorough and independent investigation, not political retaliation.
“It is troubling that the Senate President presided over proceedings that led to Senator Natasha’s suspension, without recusing himself. Moreover, the Ethics Committee prematurely dismissed her petition on technical grounds rather than allowing due process,” the group added.
TMG also highlighted disturbing reports of fraudulent efforts to gather signatures from constituents under the guise of empowerment programmes. Video evidence circulating in the media allegedly shows constituents being misled, casting doubt on the credibility of the recall process.
While commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its transparent handling of the signature verification process, TMG stressed that the recall attempt fundamentally violated Section 69 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and did not reflect the will of the people.
“Senator Natasha’s constituents have not indicated dissatisfaction with her performance. The question remains: who orchestrated this recall, and for what purpose?” the group asked.
TMG raised further concern about potential violations of the Data Protection Act, alleging that citizens’ personal data may have been harvested without consent. The group called on the National Data Protection Commission to investigate the matter and urged INEC to verify the authenticity of submitted Voter Identification Numbers (VINs) through BVAS.
“The misuse of personal data and the manipulation of democratic processes must not be tolerated. Those found culpable must be prosecuted to deter future abuse,” the group emphasized.
TMG concluded by calling for a separate and impartial investigation into the allegations leveled against the Senate President, insisting that the Senate must not be seen as a misogynistic institution, especially when dealing with one of the few female senators in the 10th National Assembly.
“The Senate has a duty to protect the rights of all its members and uphold the integrity of the legislative process. Democracy thrives when dissent is respected, not punished,” Rafsanjani stated.
