Senator Rowland Owie, a former Senate Chief Whip, has expressed strong disapproval of the six-month suspension imposed on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from Kogi Central. The suspension was a result of a confrontation between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio regarding seating arrangements in the Senate chamber, as reported by PUNCH Online.
Owie, in a press briefing held in Abuja, raised concerns about the potential negative impact of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension on the Senate’s integrity. He emphasized the importance of upholding due process and avoiding arbitrary denial of a senator’s mandate, highlighting the need for caution in preserving the institution’s reputation.
Concerns Over Legislative Impunity and Senate Integrity
Addressing reporters, Owie cautioned against what he described as legislative impunity that could establish a dangerous precedent within the Senate. He stressed the fundamental principle that a senator retains their status regardless of suspension or non-serving status, underscoring the Senate’s responsibility to uphold its integrity.
“We are not in a Banana Republic. A senator remains a senator anytime, any day, even when suspended or as a non-serving senator. The 10th Senate must exercise caution to preserve the integrity of the institution,” Owie remarked. His comments reflect a broader concern about maintaining respect for the Senate’s role and responsibilities.
Call for Thorough Investigation and Due Process
In response to the sexual harassment allegation made against Akpabio, Owie advocated for a comprehensive investigation to ensure fairness and transparency. He emphasized the critical importance of conducting thorough inquiries into any allegations brought before the Senate, emphasizing the need to avoid overlooking or dismissing serious concerns.
“I have always warned that the 10th Senate must be careful to avoid sinking the Upper Chamber. If issues are brought before the Senate, there must be thorough investigations—nothing should be swept under the carpet. Ordinarily, the President of the Senate ought to step down to allow for an impartial investigation,” Owie stated. His call for accountability and adherence to due process reflects a commitment to upholding the Senate’s credibility and reputation.
As the debate surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension continues, the broader implications for Senate governance and accountability remain a topic of significant public interest. The need for transparency, fairness, and adherence to established procedures underscores the importance of maintaining public trust in the Senate’s functioning.
In conclusion, Senator Rowland Owie’s critique of the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan highlights broader concerns about legislative integrity and accountability. By emphasizing the need for due process, thorough investigations, and respect for the Senate’s institutional reputation, Owie’s comments reflect a commitment to upholding the principles of fairness and transparency in legislative proceedings. As the Senate navigates this challenging period, the importance of maintaining public trust and confidence in its actions remains paramount.