Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has opened up on why fellow senators did not publicly support her during her six-month suspension from the National Assembly. Speaking at the commissioning of a new market in Okene, the lawmaker said fear of political punishment kept many of her colleagues quiet.

According to her, although several senators sympathised with her privately and even reached out, they chose not to show support openly because they did not want to face political backlash. She noted that the situation showed how intimidation and fear influence actions within Nigeria’s political system.

Natasha explained that it is common for leaders facing challenges to experience isolation. She added that many colleagues quietly contacted her, called, or visited but avoided public connection due to fear of persecution. The senator reassured that she holds no grudges against anyone who could not publicly defend her during the period.

She also described her suspension as unfair and politically motivated. Recall that Natasha was suspended in March over an alleged misconduct case involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio. After completing the six-month suspension, she returned to the Senate in September.