“It is, therefore, regrettable that Distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti disregarded this rule by choosing to speak from an unauthorized seat”
Analyst reacts, as Senate suspends ‘unruly’ Sen Natasha Akpoti
A public affairs analyst, Tijani Ahmed has reasoned that the senate’s disciplinary actions today against Sen Natasha Akpoti were in order, noting that such moves would help safeguard the the integrity of the Red chamber of the National Assembly.
Tijani in a release tagged ‘Upholding Order and Decorum in the Senate” described the Senate as the heartbeat of democratic governance.
He said “The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a revered institution founded on the principles of law, discipline, and decorum. It is the heartbeat of democratic governance, where elected representatives engage in constructive deliberations to advance the interests of the Nigerian people.
As an institution guided by established rules and procedures in order for them to make rules and laws for Nigeria, every Senator is expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their esteemed office. The Senate Rules are not mere formalities but essential guidelines that ensure order, mutual respect, and the seamless functioning of legislative proceedings. A core provision of these rules requires Senators to speak only from their designated seats, ensuring accountability and orderly debate.
It is, therefore, regrettable that Distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti disregarded this rule by choosing to speak from an unauthorized seat. Even when a point of order was raised by the Senate Whip, and the Senate President intervened to restore order, the Distinguished Senator persisted in her unruly behavior, resorting to verbal abuse rather than compliance. Her conduct did not only disrupt proceedings but undermined the integrity of the Senate as an institution.
“The title “Distinguished Senator” is not merely an honorary designation—it reflects the high standards of leadership, discipline, and decorum expected of those privileged to serve in the Red Chamber. To be distinguished is to embody statesmanship, respect for order, and adherence to the very rules that govern legislative practice. When a Senator chooses to act otherwise, it erodes public confidence in the institution and diminishes the dignity of the office they hold.
In light of this, the Senate has taken necessary disciplinary measures, including suspension, to reinforce the importance of upholding order. This action serves as a reminder that no individual is above the rules that govern our legislative process. The Senate will continue to ensure that its proceedings remain a model of decorum, civility, and respect for democratic principles.
We appreciate that the Senators who understand the weight of their responsibility to the Nigerian people are outraged by this embarrassing conduct. The words and actions of Senators set the tone for national discourse, and as such, they must consistently reflect the highest standards of conduct.
The Senate remains committed to its constitutional duty of making laws for the peace, order, and good governance of the nation, and it will not allow disorderly conduct to derail this sacred responsibility”.
