The Nigerian Senate has rejected the demand for a live coverage of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s appearance before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions over allegations of misconduct at the Red Chamber.
Neda Imasuen, the chairman of the committee said they have made the decision to remain focused on the issue on the ground without delving into external distractions.
Speaking on Arise TV on Wednesday, Imasuen said the committee members are about 24 people and its panel room can only take a few people.
He, however, promised that the Kogi Central lawmaker would get a fair hearing as the ethics committee has resolved not to make the matter a media affair to avoid distractions.
He said, “Distinguished Senator Natasha has privileges just like any other senator, and her privileges will be protected. She will get a fair hearing in this matter as far as I am there.
“She is my friend, and no one will trample on her rights.”
Responding to questions surrounding the allegations of sexual harassment against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio by Akpoti-Uduaghan, the chairman of the ethics committee said the court is the deciding factor on the matter.
“The issue of sex in the Senate is already before a law court, I believe, and that makes the whole conversation subjudice. I cannot comment on any matter that is before a law court, and as a lawyer myself, I have to respect that privilege.”
“The matter before us in the committee is about seating arrangements. I can only direct you to Order Six of our rule book, which regulates the activities of the Senate. It clearly states that seats are allocated to senators just like our offices, and from time to time, anything can happen to necessitate the reallocation of seats.”
