Former Adamawa North Senator, Elisha Abbo, has strongly criticized Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of exposing suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to potential harm by ordering the withdrawal of her security details.
Allegations Against Senate President Akpabio
Speaking during an interview on Arise News‘ PrimeTime show on Wednesday night, Abbo expressed outrage over the Senate’s decision to suspend Natasha for six months. He argued that the directive to strip her of security protection was a direct threat to her safety.
The Senate, under Akpabio’s leadership, had imposed the suspension after Natasha failed to substantiate her claims of sexual harassment against the Senate President. However, Abbo alleged that Akpabio’s actions were driven by political bias and personal vendetta.
Security Withdrawal: A Threat to Natasha’s Life
Abbo condemned the Senate President’s handling of the situation, stating:
“He sat like the emperor that he claims he is and said the woman should be suspended for six months, withdrew her security, stopped payment of her salary, barred her from being seen near the National Assembly building, and even ordered the Inspector General of Police not to provide her with security.”
He further insisted that such actions left Natasha vulnerable to attacks:
“When you withdraw somebody’s security—which is not right—that means you are exposing her to be killed.”
According to Abbo, the Inspector General of Police recognized the danger in Akpabio’s decision, as it could have dire consequences should anything happen to Natasha.
Comparing Akpabio’s Past Conduct in the Senate
The former senator also pointed out what he perceived as hypocrisy in Akpabio’s actions, recalling an incident in the 8th Senate when Akpabio had a verbal altercation with then-Senate President Bukola Saraki but was not suspended.
“If Akpabio was not suspended because of a seat in the 8th Assembly, why are you suspending Natasha for six months if your only motivation is because of a seat?”
Abbo’s remarks reflect growing discontent over the way Natasha’s case has been handled, raising concerns about political double standards and the potential misuse of power in the Senate.
Ongoing Reactions and Concerns
The controversy surrounding Natasha’s suspension and security withdrawal has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the Senate’s fairness under Akpabio’s leadership. As the issue unfolds, observers are keen to see how the Senate, the Inspector General of Police, and other political actors will respond to these serious allegations.
