PDP Condemns Attempts to Bar Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from Resuming at Senate

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed strong opposition to reported moves by the Clerk of the National Assembly to prevent Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her duties at the Senate, following a six-month suspension imposed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

In a statement signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP described the action as a deliberate attempt to curtail the representation of the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District. The party alleged that the move was politically motivated and orchestrated by the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Senate leadership.

“The reported action by the Clerk of the National Assembly against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan constitutes a clear and present danger to democracy and the stability of our country,” the statement said, noting that it violated provisions of the Constitution and the Standing Rules of the Senate.

The PDP also raised concerns over the alleged targeting of women in governance, citing past accusations against the Senate President of harassment and intimidation. The party called on the Senate leadership to address the allegations transparently rather than using the National Assembly bureaucracy to impede the senator’s return.

While urging Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to prepare to resume her legislative duties, the PDP cautioned the Clerk of the National Assembly to maintain neutrality and respect democratic norms. The party also appealed to international bodies, democracy advocacy groups, and other stakeholders to condemn what it described as renewed attacks on the senator.

The PDP affirmed its solidarity with the people of Kogi Central and stressed the importance of allowing Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to perform her responsibilities unhindered.