Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) has alleged that the signatures on the Senate committee report underpinning the six-month suspension of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) were forged.
Speaking during an AIT interview on Monday, Oshiomhole claimed that at least three senators listed as endorsing the document have since denied signing or approving its recommendations. He made the disclosure while responding to remarks by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who recently described the suspension as “one of the most regrettable episodes” of the current parliamentary session.
Oshiomhole specifically named Senator Ireti Kingibe (Federal Capital Territory), who reportedly expressed astonishment upon discovering her name had been published among the signatories. He stressed that committee protocols require members to personally sign reports to indicate agreement, whilst those opposed may abstain without penalty.
“The committee holds hearings, and members sign to endorse. If you disagree, you abstain. Yet, some have said they never signed, despite their names being published,” Oshiomhole stated.
He further questioned the inclusion of these names, suggesting that attendance registers may have been inappropriately substituted for formal endorsements—a practice he deemed procedurally flawed, as mere presence at a meeting does not constitute approval of its conclusions.
Oshiomhole urged the leadership not to dismiss Bamidele’s concerns, insisting the matter warrants urgent scrutiny. “If Opeyemi says so, it ought to be taken seriously,” he added.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 following allegations of misconduct and unruly behaviour, which arose after she levelled accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The sanctions include a ban from the National Assembly complex, the suspension of her salary and allowances, and the sealing of her office for the duration of the penalty.