Akpabio’s Decision: Natasha No Longer Leads Senate Diaspora Committee.
On July 10, 2025, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the removal of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations during a plenary session.
She was replaced by Senator Aniekan Bassey of Akwa Ibom North-East, effective immediately. No official reason was provided for the change, but it is widely linked to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s unresolved six-month suspension from March 2025, stemming from alleged misconduct involving a dispute with Akpabio over seating arrangements.
This marks her second removal from a committee leadership role, having been stripped of the Senate Committee on Local Content chairmanship in February 2025 and reassigned to the Diaspora and NGOs Committee.A Federal High Court ruling by Justice Binta Nyako in May 2025 declared the suspension unconstitutional, ordering Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reinstatement and requiring her to tender a formal apology to the Senate.
However, the Senate claims it has not received a certified copy of the judgment, and Akpoti-Uduaghan has yet to issue the mandated apology, leaving her status in limbo. Her removal has sparked speculation of political motives, with some sources, like Sahara Reporters, citing her March 2025 petition alleging sexual harassment by Akpabio, which she raised on Arise TV and during plenary under Senate Rule 40.
The Senate’s decision leaves Akpoti-Uduaghan without any committee leadership role upon her return. Akpabio also hinted at further reshuffling of committee vice chairmanships to ensure equitable representatio
🏛️ Change in Senate Committee Leadership
- On July 10, 2025, Senate President Godswill Akpabio officially removed Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan from her role as Chairperson of the Committee on Diaspora and Non‑Governmental Organisations.
- She was replaced by Senator Aniekan Bassey from Akwa Ibom North‑East Senatorial District. The change took immediate effect.
🔁 Background & Context
- Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan had earlier been removed as Chair of the Local Content Committee in February 2025 and reassigned to the Diaspora and NGOs committee—a move that sparked controversy given her strong oversight of oil and gas agencies.
- She was suspended in March 2025 for six months over alleged misconduct including insubordination and disruption during plenary—though the suspension was later ruled to be excessive by a court.
🧭 Implications of the Move
| Element | Insight |
|---|---|
| Political Signal | The leadership change came amid ongoing tension between Natasha and Senate President Akpabio, raising questions about motivation. |
| Committee Control | With her removal, Natasha now holds no chairmanship position in the Senate. |
| Legitimacy Concerns | No official reason was given for the removal—further fueling speculation of political reprisal. |
✅ Bottom Line
Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan has been stripped of her role as Chair of the Diaspora & NGOs Committee, and replaced by Senator Aniekan Bassey. The move aligns with prior shakeups but comes amidst unresolved accusations and has sparked debate about fairness and internal dynamics within the Senate.
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