IPU Cannot Summon Akpabio Over Natasha’s Case, Says Senate Spokesman

 The Senate has dismissed claims that the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) can summon Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the political controversy surrounding Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central. The Senate spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, clarified that the IPU lacks the authority to interfere in Nigeria’s legislative matters, let alone summon Akpabio over internal political disputes.

The controversy stems from allegations that Akpabio has been politically undermining Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Her supporters have accused the Senate President of using his influence to sideline her in legislative affairs, citing her exclusion from key Senate committees and other alleged acts of marginalization.

In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan reportedly sought the intervention of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, a global organization that facilitates cooperation among parliaments. Some reports suggested that the IPU might take up her complaint and summon Akpabio for questioning. However, Adaramodu, speaking on behalf of the Senate, dismissed such claims as unfounded and misleading.

“The IPU is an international parliamentary organization that fosters collaboration among lawmakers worldwide. However, it has no jurisdiction over the internal operations of any sovereign nation’s legislature. The claim that the IPU can summon the Senate President is not only false but also an attempt to mislead the public,” Adaramodu said.

He further explained that Nigeria’s Senate, like every other parliament, is governed by its constitution and standing rules. “Every senator, regardless of their party affiliation, has rights and privileges within the Senate. If Senator Natasha has grievances, there are proper channels to address them within the legislative framework. Running to an international body with no direct oversight over Nigeria’s parliamentary affairs is unnecessary and politically motivated,” he added.

Despite the Senate’s position, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters insist that she has faced discrimination in the legislative process. They argue that the leadership of the Senate should be neutral and fair to all members, regardless of party lines. Some PDP lawmakers have also weighed in, accusing Akpabio of favoritism and calling for a fairer distribution of Senate committee positions and responsibilities.

This development adds to the growing political tensions in the National Assembly, where opposition lawmakers have repeatedly accused the APC-led leadership of sidelining them. While Akpabio has not personally addressed the controversy, his allies insist that his leadership style is inclusive and that allegations of bias are baseless.

With political divisions deepening, it remains to be seen whether this dispute will escalate further or if internal resolutions will be reached. However, the Senate’s firm stance on the IPU’s lack of jurisdiction suggests that any further attempts to involve the international body may not gain traction.

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