Senate Denies Oshiomhole’s Forgery Allegation Over Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Suspension

Senate Denies Oshiomhole’s Forgery Allegation Over Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan Suspension The Nigerian Senate has denied allegations made by former Edo State governor and senator, Adams Oshiomhole, that signatures were forged during the process leading to the suspension of Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan. The Senate maintained that no senator’s signature was falsified in the report that recommended her six-month suspension, insisting that the legislative process followed due procedure and internal rules. Oshiomhole had reportedly raised concerns that some signatures attached to the committee report did not reflect the actual consent of certain lawmakers, suggesting irregularities in the documentation process that led to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension. However, in response, the Senate firmly rejected the claims, stating that all signatures used in the process were genuine and properly obtained, and that no senator had formally complained of forgery. According to Senate clarification, the allegation that signatures were forged was described as a misrepresentation, with lawmakers insisting that the issue being referenced was about attendance records attached to a committee report rather than falsified endorsements. The controversy surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has continued to generate political debate since March 2025, when she was suspended for alleged misconduct, including disorderly conduct and violation of Senate standing rules. The Senate’s Ethics and Privileges Committee had recommended the suspension, which also included restrictions on her access to her office, salary, and official privileges for the duration of the penalty.

The issue has remained politically sensitive, with opposition figures and civil society groups previously calling for greater transparency in the disciplinary process and questioning the circumstances surrounding the decision. Senate officials, however, insist that the matter has been settled internally and that attention should now return to legislative duties rather than renewed controversy over the suspension process. The development adds another layer to the ongoing political tensions involving prominent lawmakers and highlights continued scrutiny of Senate disciplinary procedures in Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber.