Unfair Punishment in the Senate: A threat to justice and democracy, by Dr Tukur Madu Yemi
An open letter to Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and the Nigerian Senate
Dear Senator Opeyemi Bamidele,
I write as a concerned Nigerian and academic, deeply troubled by the recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. In a statement reported by Vanguard on March 8, 2025, you explained that her suspension was due to misconduct, disregard for Senate rules, and indiscipline—not because she accused the Senate President of sexual harassment. While I acknowledge your explanation, the Senate’s handling of disciplinary actions appears inconsistent and unfair.
Over the years, several senators have engaged in serious misconduct without facing suspension. Yet, the Senate has chosen to punish Senator Natasha—a woman who has consistently spoken out on critical national issues. This decision raises serious questions: Is the Senate truly enforcing discipline, or is it trying to silence a fearless voice?
Why is Discipline Not Applied Equally?
If the Senate is committed to enforcing discipline, it should apply the same rules to all members, regardless of gender or political stance. However, past incidents show a clear pattern of selective punishment. Here are examples of senators who engaged in misconduct but were not suspended:
1. Senator Dino Melaye vs. Senator Oluremi Tinubu (2016) – Senator Melaye allegedly threatened Senator Tinubu during a heated exchange, yet neither was suspended.
2. Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s Dispute with Another Senator (2017) – The current First Lady, then a senator, was involved in a verbal confrontation, but no disciplinary action was taken
3. Senator Abdulaziz Nyako and Senate Disputes (2018) – Despite serious conflicts, no suspension was issued.
4. Senator Smart Adeyemi’s Verbal Attack on Governor Okezie Ikpeazu (2021) – He made inflammatory remarks against a sitting governor, yet he was not punished.
5. Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and the Missing Mace Incident (2018) – He was linked to the forceful removal of the Senate mace, yet he was not indefinitely suspended.
6. Senator Elisha Abbo’s Assault Case (2019) – He was caught on camera physically assaulting a woman, yet he remained in the Senate.
7. Senator Adolphus Wabara’s Bribery Case (2005) – Accused of accepting a ₦55 million bribe, he resigned as Senate President but continued to serve as a senator.
8. Senator Bukola Saraki’s Corruption Trial (2015-2018) – Despite facing corruption charges, he was not suspended and continued to lead the Senate until his eventual acquittal.
These cases show that while other senators have committed serious offensesoffencesere not suspended. Why, then, is Senator Natasha being singled out? Is this about enforcing Senate rules, or is it an attempt to silence a woman who refuses to be intimidated?
What This Means for Nigeria
Senator Natasha has become a symbol of courage, accountability, and justice. Her suspension is not just about one individual—it sends a dangerous message to all Nigerians. It suggests that those who challenge the powerful will be punished, while others are protected regardless of their actions.
READ ALSO: No pressure will make us reverse Natasha’s suspension – Senate
Such selective justice weakens democracy and erodes public trust in the Senate. If this trend continues, Nigerians will see the Senate not as a body that serves the people but as an institution that shields those in power while suppressing dissenting voices.
The Senate Must Reverse This Decision
I urge the Senate to reconsider its decision and uphold fairness. If discipline is to be enforced, it must be done without bias. No senator should be punished for speaking truth to power, and no one should be shielded simply because of their influence.
The credibility of the Nigerian Senate is at stake. Reversing Senator Natasha’s suspension would demonstrate that the Senate values justice, equity, and democratic principles.
Justice must not only be done—it must be seen to be done.
Dr. Tukur Madu Yemi
Federal University of Kashere, Gombe
alhajitukur68@gmail.com
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