The lawmaker representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District, Seriake Dickson, has expressed his support for the reinstatement of his colleague from Kogi Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to the Senate.
Natasha was suspended on March 6 following a heated disagreement with the Senate leadership over a new seating arrangement, which she alleged was deliberately structured to marginalise her.
The situation escalated when she appeared on national television and accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of retaliating against her for allegedly rejecting his sexual advances, an allegation Akpabio has denied.
In a recent development, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja, on July 4, ordered the Senate to reinstate Natasha, ruling that her suspension was unlawful. Speaking to journalists, Senator Dickson stated that he never supported her suspension and hopes she will resume her legislative duties without further delay.
“I sympathise with Natasha. I have never been in support of any legislative activities that suspend members for long periods of time,” Seriake Dickson said. “The Senate leadership and my colleagues know my position on this matter, which is anchored on the law, the constitution, and my personal conviction. Senators are here to agree and disagree in the national interest.”
He emphasised the importance of mutual respect and tolerance among lawmakers, even when disagreements arise. “We have to tolerate and respect one another, even when we have differences of opinion. I was not present when the suspension was announced, but that’s not my concern. My concern is that she should resume her seat as soon as possible to continue performing her constitutional responsibilities. I have been informed that the court has ruled on the matter, and I hope it is resolved promptly,” he added.
Seriake Dickson’s remarks highlight the ongoing tension within the Senate and the broader implications of legislative disputes on democratic processes. His stance aligns with calls for due process and the protection of lawmakers’ rights to represent their constituents without undue interference.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
