The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly opposed the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate. The party believes this move was meant to silence her claims of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP said suspending the senator without a proper investigation was unfair. The party argued that this action goes against the principle of justice and damages the Senate’s reputation.

The PDP criticized the decision, saying it was rushed and lacked transparency. The party also pointed out that the suspension denies the people of Kogi Central their right to be represented in the Senate for six months.

Furthermore, the PDP accused the Senate leadership of protecting Akpabio while punishing Akpoti-Uduaghan. They recalled a similar allegation against Akpabio by Dr. Joi Nunieh, a former NDDC official. The party questioned why Akpabio remains in office despite multiple accusations.

“If Senator Akpabio has nothing to hide, he should agree to an open and fair investigation,” the PDP said.

Apart from the sexual harassment claim, the PDP mentioned that Akpabio is also facing corruption investigations. These relate to his time as Governor of Akwa Ibom State and as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs. The party argued that the Senate leadership is involved in several controversies, making it weak in checking the executive branch.

With protests already happening over the suspension, the PDP is urging the Senate to reinstate Akpoti-Uduaghan and investigate her claims properly. The party believes this is the only way to protect the Senate’s integrity and ensure justice.