Senator Natasha Excluded From UN Women Conference, Replaced By Male Senator

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has been removed from Nigeria’s delegation to the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) in New York, United States. The conference, which began on March 9 and runs until March 19 at the United Nations headquarters, focuses on advancing gender equality and improving access to justice for women and girls. Despite the event’s emphasis on women’s issues, Akpoti-Uduaghan was replaced by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire. The Kogi lawmaker had earlier raised concerns during a Senate Committee on Appropriations meeting on February 25, claiming she was sidelined after being initially invited by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs. She reportedly submitted the requested photo page of her international passport within hours but was later informed that she could not attend because the details were allegedly submitted too late. Senator Ireti Kingibe, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, had previously denied that Akpoti-Uduaghan was removed, explaining that she had recommended her for the delegation after two other female senators, Idiat Adebule and Ipalibo Banigo, declined the invitation. Kingibe had also assured Akpoti-Uduaghan that she would be included and would stay back if the Kogi senator could not go. In a letter dated March 5, Kingibe clarified that the Ministry of Women Affairs had not responded to requests for sponsoring delegation members. She further explained that the Senate eventually approved only two participants — herself and Senator Adegbonmire — for the trip. “For the sake of clarity, I can confirm that at this stage, only two members of the Senate have been officially nominated by the Senate President and have confirmed registration: myself, in my capacity as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, and Senator Adegbonmire Adeniyi Ayodele, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters,” the letter stated. Kingibe apologised for any inconvenience and advised Akpoti-Uduaghan that she could still attend the conference personally if she already holds a valid United States visa.

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Natasha Osawaru Idibia Returns To Edo Assembly After Maternity Leave

Natasha Osawaru Idibia has returned to her legislative duties at the Edo State House of Assembly after spending months away on maternity leave. The lawmaker, who welcomed her first child with music icon 2Baba toward the end of last year, shared a clip on her Instagram story capturing her moment back in the chamber as she addressed fellow lawmakers. Clearly excited to resume work, she said, “I am happy to be back, too, from my maternity leave, Mr Speaker.” The couple announced the birth of their baby in November but chose to keep details, including the child’s gender, private while teasing fans playfully on social media. In January, they held a formal dedication for the child at a Catholic church. Photos from the ceremony showed Natasha, 2Baba, and the singer’s mother posing proudly with the newborn. Her return to the Assembly highlights a new chapter as she embraces motherhood while continuing her responsibilities as a public office holder.

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Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Protests Alleged Exclusion From Senate Committee

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has raised fresh concerns over what she described as unfair treatment within the Senate after her alleged removal from the Senate Committee on the North Central Development Commission. The situation reportedly unfolded when the lawmaker arrived at a committee session expecting to participate, only to discover that her name was not included on the official list of members. The development sparked immediate questions, given that the commission’s mandate directly affects states in the North Central geopolitical zone, which she represents. In a bid to clarify the matter, Akpoti-Uduaghan was directed to the office of the committee chairman, Senator Titus Tartenger Zam of Benue North-West, where the committee clerk was said to be present. Her visit reportedly resulted in a tense exchange, with the senator alleging that the chairman hinted at acting on instructions from higher authorities, though no specifics were disclosed. Describing the incident as part of a broader pattern, she said, “This incident is part of a recurring pattern of marginalisation. All senators are constitutionally equal in status, authority, and mandate.” She questioned the constitutional and procedural basis for excluding her from a committee that oversees matters central to her region. In a statement issued in Abuja by her media aide, Mike Idoko, the senator further alleged that tensions escalated when aides attached to the committee chairman confronted members of her media team. “Approximately six aides, including the chairman’s secretary, seized my cinematographer’s phone and engaged in verbal hostility. This is unacceptable,” she said. Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her commitment to representing the interests of her constituents, stating that her stance is rooted in the electoral mandate given to her by the people of Kogi Central. She pledged to continue advocating for fairness and equal treatment within the legislative chamber. Fresh tension at the National Assembly as Senator Natasha Akpoti was reportedly involved in another confrøntation at the office of Senator Titus Zam👀👀 pic.twitter.com/E19P3GLPa2 — CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) February 16, 2026

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Natasha Idibia Shares Loved-Up Photos With 2Baba After Romantic Valentine Surprise

Natasha Idibia has given fans a glimpse into her romance with legendary singer 2Baba after posting loved-up photos of the two sharing a passionate kiss. The intimate snapshots, shared on her social media page, appeared to send a clear message to critics, as she proudly flaunted their affection and unity. Her post comes shortly after 2Baba organised a lavish Valentine’s Day surprise for her, decorating their room with balloons, flowers and other romantic touches. The gesture left Natasha visibly emotional and appreciative. Expressing her gratitude, she made it clear that she would choose her husband over and over again, reaffirming the deep connection and commitment they share.

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2Baba, Natasha Osawaru Dedicate First Child In Private Ceremony

2Baba and his wife Natasha Osawaru have dedicated their first child in a private church ceremony. The couple shared moments from the intimate event on social media, which was attended by close family, including 2Baba’s mother, Rose Idibia. The baby, whose gender has been kept private, was welcomed earlier this year. 2Baba and Natasha married in July 2025, and the singer recently issued a public apology for past controversies, asking fans for forgiveness.

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Akpabio Moves Supreme Court Over Suspension Of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has taken the legal dispute over the suspension of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Supreme Court. Court documents obtained on Thursday show that Akpabio filed an application to regularize and sustain his appeal challenging decisions of lower courts in the matter. The filings carry Supreme Court number SC/CV/1111/2025, Appeal number CA/ABJ/CV/1107/2025, and Federal High Court suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025. The motion, filed under the Supreme Court Act and the Constitution, seeks to have Akpabio’s notice of appeal and brief of argument recognized as properly submitted. The appellant is Akpabio, while the respondents include Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate, and Senator Neda Imasuen, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. The conflict arose from a February 2025 Senate plenary session in which Akpoti-Uduaghan raised concerns about privilege and alleged procedural breaches. The matter was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which recommended her suspension. Akpoti-Uduaghan challenged the suspension at the Federal High Court in Abuja, claiming violations of her right to a fair hearing and noncompliance with Senate standing orders. The court ruled on July 4, 2025, that the suspension was harsh and unlawful. Following proceedings at the Court of Appeal, Akpabio is now seeking Supreme Court intervention to extend time to apply for leave to appeal, obtain permission to appeal on mixed law and fact grounds, and confirm the validity of his submissions. He argued that the Senate acted within its constitutional powers under Section 60 of the 1999 Constitution, which allows the National Assembly to regulate its internal operations, and that the Senate President is not obliged to rule on every privilege issue immediately. Akpoti-Uduaghan has maintained that her suspension was illegal and executed without a fair hearing, claiming that Senate procedures were not properly followed. She and her lawyers confirmed receiving Supreme Court processes on Thursday. The case also includes a related contempt issue arising from a social media post by Akpoti-Uduaghan while the matter was pending. The Federal High Court had fined her and ordered a public apology, an order she has also appealed. The Supreme Court’s decision is expected to clarify the limits of legislative disciplinary powers and judicial oversight. The legal developments come just two weeks after Akpabio announced plans to withdraw pending court cases. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s office has been closed since her suspension on March 6, 2025, following allegations of misconduct during a protest against Akpabio’s relocation of her Senate seat on February 20. Although the ban was set to expire in September, she has been unable to resume work due to ongoing legal battles and opposition from Senate leadership. After the July 4 High Court ruling, she informed the Senate of her intent to return, but her request was initially blocked.

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Abuja Court Strikes Out Criminal Case Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

An Abuja High Court on Thursday struck out the criminal charges brought by the Federal Government against the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, ending a high-profile case that sparked widespread national debate. The charges were withdrawn after the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation filed a Notice of Discontinuance, leading the court to formally strike out the criminal defamation and related counts earlier filed against the lawmaker. The case stemmed from comments Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly made during a televised interview and had drawn significant public attention, with debates focusing on freedom of expression, political accountability, and the limits of prosecutorial powers in a democratic society. The Notice of Discontinuance, dated December 12, 2025, brought proceedings in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025 to an end. Justice C. N. Oji, who presided over the matter, acknowledged the notice and struck out the case. In his remarks, the judge said the development highlighted the need for restraint in the use of prosecutorial authority, expressing hope that it would encourage respect for the rule of law and promote healing within the democratic process. Counsel to the Federal Government confirmed the withdrawal of the charges in court, explaining that the decision was taken in line with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and in the overall interest of justice and public confidence in the legal system. Reacting after the court session, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the ruling as a vindication of her position. She said the outcome reaffirmed her belief in the rule of law and pledged to remain committed to serving her constituents and defending democratic rights. The striking out of the charges follows months of legal controversy and sustained public discourse, with civil society groups and rights organisations previously condemning the case as an attempt to suppress free speech and political engagement.

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FG Drops Criminal Defamation Charges Against Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

The Federal Government has officially discontinued the criminal defamation and cyberbullying case against the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, putting an end to a legal battle that had drawn intense public and political attention. The withdrawal was confirmed on Sunday following a telephone conversation with Eseme Eyiboh, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Senate President. According to him, the decision was consistent with Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s earlier directive to withdraw all defamation-related suits he had instituted. The charges arose from petitions submitted by Akpabio and former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello after Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly made comments during a televised appearance on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme, where she reportedly claimed there were plots to assassinate her. Eyiboh, while explaining the development, said, “When the Senate President made the decision to withdraw all defamation cases in court, he didn’t say ‘except Natasha’; he said all cases.” Akpabio had announced on Thursday that he instructed his lawyers to discontinue every defamation suit he filed against individuals, stating that the decision followed advice he received from a priest during a New Year Mass. Following this directive, the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation filed a Notice of Discontinuance dated December 12, 2025, before the Federal High Court in Abuja, effectively bringing the prosecution to an end. The filing was made under Sections 108(1), 108(2)(a) and 108(5) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, as well as the inherent powers of the court. The notice, submitted in the name of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, was signed by officials of the Department of Public Prosecutions on behalf of the Attorney-General and duly certified by the court. It was entered in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025. “The Office of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation intends to discontinue proceedings in this matter,” the notice read.

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