The Senate on Thursday advised Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to respect and obey the rules and orders of the legislative institution.

Rising on Order 55(1), the Chief Whip of the Senate, Mohammed Monguno pointed out that “it is the Rules and Order of the Senate that when the Senate President is being ushered into the chamber by the Sergeant-at-arms, all senators must stand up”.

The chief whip regretted that Natasha disrespected the Rules and Order of the Senate on Wednesday and Thursday by refusing to stand up like other senators, as required, when Akpabio entered the chamber.

He called on the female lawmaker to abide by the rules, irrespective of any circumstances, noting that the institution must be protected at all costs.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio sustained the order and urged all senators to be guided.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has filed a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging sexual harassment.

The petition was presented on the floor of the Senate as plenary resumed.

Citing Order 40 of the Senate rules, Akpoti-Uduaghan referenced comments she had previously made on Arise TV regarding the alleged harassment. She stated that she was now formally submitting the matter as a petition before the legislative body.

In response, Akpabio allowed her to proceed with the submission.

“Distinguished colleagues, this petition is hereby referred to the Committee on Code of Conduct, Ethics, and Public Petitions, which should report back to the Senate as soon as practicable,” Akpabio announced.

Objections Raised Over Petition

Shortly after the petition was submitted, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno raised an objection, arguing that the Senate could not deliberate on the matter because it was already in court. Citing Order 40, Rule 7, Monguno insisted that the Senate must refrain from discussing cases under judicial consideration.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, however, disputed his claim. This matter is not in court,” she asserted.

“The court case in question is a defamation suit against the Senate President’s special assistant on social media, Patrick Mfon, who falsely accused me of dressing indecently in the Senate.”

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also opposed the petition, maintaining that it was inadmissible.

“We cannot relax our rules,” Bamidele argued. “This petition cannot stand. It is in court. It is defective, there is no way we can accept it.”

A brief commotion followed, prompting the Senate to move into a closed session.

Akpoti-Uduaghan Walks Out

Following the tense exchange, the Senate resumed its scheduled business. However, Akpoti-Uduaghan staged a walkout in protest.

This latest development follows a series of clashes between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio. On February 20, they had a dispute over seating arrangements, leading to her referral to the Senate’s disciplinary panel. Days later, on February 25, she filed a ₦100 billion defamation lawsuit against Akpabio.

Founder Dozy Mmobuosi & Student Amina Spotlight Female Tech Power

Tingo AI Radio, Africa’s first AI-powered radio, hosted Lagos State Model College students for International Women’s Day, celebrating women’s transformative role in technology. Fourteen-year-old Amina stole the show, declaring, “I’ll create AI that changes the world!” after testing Tingo’s voice-activated systems.

Founder Dozy Mmobuosi, a trailblazer in ethical AI, emphasized inclusivity: “Women don’t just code algorithms—they shape solutions for real human needs.” She highlighted Tingo’s female-led team, which built the platform’s bias-free music curation and news tools.

Amina’s passion mirrored Dozy Mmobuosi’s vision. “Seeing women lead here makes me fearless,” she said, coding a mini radio chatbot during the workshop.The event concluded with Tingo pledging mentorship for Lagos State Model College’s new Girls in AI program, empowering students like Amina to lead Africa’s tech revolution.

Dozy Mmobuosi, Founder of Tingo AI, emphasized the importance of women’s leadership in shaping the future, stating, “Women have always been at the heart of progress. We want these young girls to know that there are no limits to what they can achieve. Whether in science, business, or creative industries, they have the power to lead and redefine the world.”

Tingo AI remains committed to fostering an environment where young women are encouraged to dream bigger, break barriers, and take their place as the next generation of leaders.Stay connected with us @tingoai_ for more groundbreaking innovations and educational experiences.

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