Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, a former governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kogi State, has demanded the removal of Senate President Godswill Akpabio following a heated confrontation with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan during a plenary session.
The clash occurred on Tuesday, February 20, 2025, during a Senate sitting when Akpabio ordered Akpoti-Uduaghan out of the chamber after she raised concerns about a sudden change in her seating arrangement. The female senator, who represents Kogi Central, had expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, which she claimed was done without any prior consultation or explanation.
In response, Akpabio dismissed her complaint and insisted that she leave the chamber if she could not accept the directive. The altercation quickly escalated, drawing reactions from fellow senators and the public.
Ajaka condemned Akpabio’s handling of the situation, describing it as an abuse of power and a display of high-handedness. In a statement released on Wednesday, he said, “Akpabio’s leadership style is undemocratic and divisive. A Senate President should promote inclusivity, fairness, and mutual respect among members, not attempt to suppress dissenting voices. He must go.”
The controversy has sparked discussions on gender representation in Nigerian politics, with many observers questioning whether female legislators are given equal treatment in the legislative arm of government. Some political analysts believe that the clash is part of a bigger power struggle within the Senate, as Akpoti-Uduaghan has been vocal on several national issues.
As calls for Akpabio’s removal grow louder, the Senate leadership is yet to issue an official response. However, sources indicate that some lawmakers are considering filing a motion of no confidence against him if tensions continue to escalate.