The Nigerian Senate has dismissed allegations of forged signatures in the process that led to the suspension of Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, insisting that all procedures followed were transparent and within parliamentary rules.
The Senate’s position was made clear by its spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, who reacted to claims raised by former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole.
Oshiomhole’s Allegation Sparks Fresh Controversy
Oshiomhole had alleged that signatures of at least three senators were either forged or improperly included in the committee report that recommended a six-month suspension for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
He made the claim during a television interview on AIT, where he also suggested that some lawmakers whose names appeared on the report privately told him they neither signed nor endorsed it.
His remarks came in response to comments made by Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, who described Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension as one of the low points of the 10th Senate.
Senate Dismisses Claim As “False And Strange”
Reacting to the allegation, Adaramodu firmly rejected any suggestion of forgery, describing the claims as unfounded and unfamiliar to the Senate’s procedures.
“That is not true. Signatures forged, over what?” he said during a phone interview with The Cable.
He also addressed claims involving Senator Ireti Kingibe, stating that she had never formally raised any complaint regarding the process.
According to him, any senator with grievances would have raised them on the floor of the chamber rather than through third parties.
“No Senator Complained” — Senate Maintains Position
Adaramodu insisted that the Senate operates on principles of independence, order and internal procedure, adding that no senator had officially reported any case of signature forgery in the matter.
He said: “If Senator Kingibe had anything against any procedure, she would report it on the floor of the senate, not to an individual.
“But it is not even true… nobody will say that his or her signature was forged; that has never happened in the senate and it cannot happen.”
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He further stressed that lawmakers are guided by Senate rules and act independently in carrying out their duties.
Senate May Review Oshiomhole’s Comments
On whether the Senate would take action against Oshiomhole over his allegations, Adaramodu said the chamber would first review his statements before deciding on any response.
“We are going to review any statements made by him… and take a stand appropriately,” he said.
He added that the Senate would examine any “extraneous or intentional comments” made by lawmakers regarding the issue.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 following allegations of gross misconduct and unruly behaviour during a dispute involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The Senate maintains that the suspension was based on established rules and procedures, following deliberations on the floor of the chamber.