International Intervention? IPU President Weighs in on Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension Amidst Political Firestorm

The President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Tulia Ackson, has stepped into the controversy surrounding the suspension of embattled Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, assuring that due process will be followed in addressing the issue.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who claims her suspension from the Nigerian Senate was politically motivated, made a dramatic appeal to the IPU and the United Nations, seeking international intervention.

Speaking at the *Women in Parliament* session during the IPU meeting on Tuesday, she painted a picture of political persecution, alleging that her removal was orchestrated to silence her voice.

“I come with a heavy heart from Nigeria. But first, I’d like to apologise to honourable members—I am not here to bring shame to my country. I am here to seek help for the women of Nigeria,” she declared, in an emotional plea that has sparked debate over the role of international bodies in Nigeria’s internal politics.

Her remarks have fueled tensions, with critics arguing that she is tarnishing Nigeria’s reputation on the global stage, while supporters insist she is exposing the deep-rooted injustices faced by female politicians in the country.

With the IPU now involved, the battle over her suspension has taken an international dimension, raising serious questions about political suppression and gender-based discrimination in Nigeria’s legislative system.