The lawmaker representing Kogi Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has clarified that her invitation to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and other lawmakers for the commissioning of constituency projects in Kogi State was in full compliance with legislative tradition and procedure.
Speaking through a statement issued on Thursday, the senator explained that her decision to channel the invitation through the presiding officer followed parliamentary convention.
“Today, as is customary for announcements of such nature, I wrote a letter to the Senate through the presiding officer to the Senate President to read on the floor,” she said.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who marks her second year in office this week, said the invitation was not a personal celebration but an effort to highlight her commitment to public service and inclusive representation.
“I put out the invitation so it wouldn’t seem like I was celebrating in isolation. I’m a progressive person. Even with ongoing court cases, I continue to carry out my duties in the chamber and follow proper procedures,” she said.
The lawmaker stressed that her decision reflected her dedication to due process and institutional respect, adding that her upcoming project inaugurations were part of her continuous effort to improve the welfare of her constituents.
“This is not about personal recognition but about celebrating the achievements of public service,” she stated.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s clarification comes amid renewed public attention following her recent return from suspension by the Senate.
The Kogi senator was suspended for six months on March 6 after the Senate adopted the report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
Her suspension followed a heated confrontation with Senate President Akpabio on February 20 over seating arrangements, which later escalated into accusations of sexual harassment — an allegation Akpabio vehemently denied.
She was reinstated on September 24, after serving her suspension, and has since resumed active participation in parliamentary activities.
Since her return, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has sponsored several initiatives, including a bill to establish a National Centre for Autism and six zonal centres across Nigeria.
The proposed legislation seeks to promote early diagnosis, research, education, and care for persons with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).
