The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned what it described as an attempt by the Clerk of the National Assembly to stop Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her legislative duties after serving a six-month suspension.
In a statement on Tuesday, PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, alleged that the move was a coordinated plot by Senate leadership under Senator Godswill Akpabio and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to stifle opposition voices in the National Assembly.
The party described the Clerk’s action as unconstitutional, warning that it violates the Senate’s Standing Rules and undermines the democratic rights of the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District, whom Senator Natasha represents.
“This action is provocative and poses a threat to democracy and national stability,” the statement read.
PDP further accused the APC-led government of using state institutions to suppress dissent and women’s participation in politics.
It also referenced past allegations of harassment against Senate President Akpabio, urging him to focus on addressing those issues rather than allegedly targeting Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The opposition party demanded the immediate withdrawal of the letter barring the senator from resuming, advising the Clerk to remain neutral and not serve partisan interests.
PDP also appealed to the international community, human rights groups, and pro-democracy organizations to raise their voices against the development.
Reaffirming its support for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the PDP urged her to disregard the reported letter and return to her duties without fear.
