By Adesakin Adefemi
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District, has alleged that the signatures of at least three senators were forged or improperly included in the report that recommended the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Oshiomhole made the claim on Monday during an interview on Africa Independent Television. He was reacting to remarks by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who described the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan as one of the lowest moments of the 10th Senate.
According to the former Edo State governor, several lawmakers whose names appeared on the report told him privately that they neither signed the document nor endorsed its recommendations. He said committee members are expected to sign reports only when they agree with the contents.
One of the senators mentioned by Oshiomhole was the senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, Ireti Kingibe. He quoted her as saying, “But I didn’t sign that report. But my name was published.”
“The committee does a hearing; members are expected to sign the report to endorse it. If you don’t agree, you can abstain,” Oshiomhole stated. “But some said they didn’t sign, yet their names were published.”
He argued that including names without lawmakers’ consent would constitute a breach of parliamentary procedure. Oshiomhole suggested that some may have attached an attendance register, but said that was not the appropriate way to endorse a report.
The allegation comes amid renewed scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central. Her disciplinary action has continued to generate controversy within and outside the National Assembly.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate in March 2025 after being found guilty of alleged gross misconduct and unruly behaviour. The decision followed a report submitted by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions. The suspension included withdrawal of salary, closure of her office, and a ban from legislative premises.
Oshiomhole’s claims are expected to intensify calls for transparency over the committee’s proceedings. As of the time of filing this report, neither the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions nor the Senate leadership had issued an official response to the allegations.
