Senate Committee Shake-Up: Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Replaced as Chairman of Diaspora and NGOs Committee

Strategic Insights -

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced during plenary that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been removed as chairman of the senate committee on diaspora and NGOs, citing a need to redistribute vice chairmanship positions. She was replaced by Senator Aniekan Bassey, who represents Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District. The change takes effect immediately, with Akpabio hinting at broader reshuffling of committee positions. This move comes after Akpoti-Uduaghan's earlier removal as Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content and her ongoing suspension over alleged gross misconduct.

Key Takeaways:

  • Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was removed as chairman of the senate committee on diaspora and NGOs by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
  • She was replaced by Senator Aniekan Bassey, who represents Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District.
  • Akpoti-Uduaghan was previously removed as Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content and is still serving a suspension over alleged gross misconduct.
  • A review of vice chairmanships is underway to ensure a more equitable distribution, with some changes expected to be made next week.
  • Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has yet to resume her legislative duties despite a recent court ruling that voided her suspension.
  • She stated that she would return to plenary once she receives the Certified True Copy of the judgment, citing legal advice and respect for institutional process.
  • Akpoti-Uduaghan's removal from the diaspora and NGOs committee follows a broader reshuffle of committee positions, with Akpabio announcing changes to vice chairmanship positions.
  • The new chairman, Senator Bassey, will take effect from Thursday.

Statistics:

  • February 4, 2025: Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was appointed chair of the diaspora and NGOs Committee.
  • March: Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended over alleged gross misconduct.
  • Undated: Akpoti-Uduaghan remains suspended despite a recent court ruling voiding her suspension.

Sources:

  • Senate President Godswill Akpabio's announcement during plenary.
  • Interview with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Tuesday.