Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Nigerian senator, has sparked controversy after making a bold allegation that the Nigerian Senate operates like a cult, suppressing free speech and silencing dissenting voices.
Her statement comes after she was suspended for submitting a petition that accused the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, of sexual harassment.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with the BBC, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan disclosed that the Nigerian Senate has instilled fear in both its members and the opposition, making it nearly impossible for anyone to stand up against the leadership.
She emphasized that many lawmakers remain silent out of fear, as speaking against the institution or Senate President Akpabio could lead to severe consequences, including the loss of privileges and political persecution.
According to her, the Senate President runs the legislative body like an authoritarian ruler rather than a democratic leader, curbing free speech and ensuring that anyone who dares to challenge him is cut down.
“The Nigerian Senate operates like a cult. The Senate President runs the Senate like a dictator, not a democrat. There is no freedom of speech, there is no freedom of expression, and anyone who dares to go against him gets cut to size,” she asserted in her first TV interview since her suspension.
She further explained that the current environment within the Senate discourages transparency and accountability, which ultimately affects governance and legislative decision-making in the country.
Her remarks have since sparked widespread discussions, with some supporting her claims while others question her motives and the timing of her allegations.
Watch the video below…
“The Nigerian Senate operates like a cult…”
– Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghanhttps://t.co/fAheBSHANd pic.twitter.com/ajVADmur1y
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) March 20, 2025