By Paul Joseph
The Nigerian Senate has dismissed allegations by Senator Adams Oshiomhole that signatures on the committee report recommending the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan were forged or improperly included.
Speaking on Tuesday, Senate spokesperson Senator Yemi Adaramodu described the claims as unfounded, insisting that no senator had lodged any complaint about forged signatures or being compelled to endorse the report.
Oshiomhole had alleged during a media interview that several lawmakers whose names appeared on the report did not actually sign it.
He specifically cited Senator Ireti Kingibe, claiming she told him she only signed the attendance register at the committee meeting and not the final report recommending Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension.
Responding to the allegation, Adaramodu said the issue had never been brought before the Senate and maintained that members of the Red Chamber are independent-minded individuals who would not hesitate to raise concerns if any irregularity occurred.
He added that the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions conducted its proceedings in a transparent manner and that no lawmaker was pressured into signing any document.
According to Adaramodu, the Senate will review Oshiomhole’s public comments and determine whether any further action is necessary.
“We are going to review any statements made by him. The Senate will take a look at the comments and take an appropriate position,” he said.
The Senate spokesman further maintained that the entire process leading to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was conducted openly during plenary sessions and was witnessed by Nigerians as well as members of the international community.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 for six months over allegations of gross misconduct and unruly behaviour following her dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
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