A mild drama played out on the floor of the senate on Tuesday as Senate President Godswill Akpabio marked his 63rd birthday.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central, who turned 47 the same day, was also listed among lawmakers celebrating their birthdays.
It is a long-standing tradition for the Senate President to recognise senators marking their birthdays by calling their names for goodwill messages.
While reading out the names, Akpabio called his own name and paused when he got to Akpoti-Uduaghan, saying, “and another person, Distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.”
The chamber erupted in laughter as Akpabio laughed while mentioning her name.
This comes after Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed that Akpabio had filed a N200 billion suit against her over a sexual harassment allegation.
She had earlier been suspended by the senate for six months over misconduct and violation of the senate standing rules following a dispute over seating arrangements that escalated during plenary.
On February 20, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, although the senate said her suspension was for breaching chamber rules and not for the allegation.
Since returning from suspension on October 7, Akpoti-Uduaghan has maintained a low profile on the floor of the senate.
Both lawmakers have largely avoided each other in recent weeks.
