The media strategist and consultant to Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Kenny Okolugbo, has asserted that an apology can end the suspension of Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Naijaonpoint reports that Okolugbo, in an interview with Vanguard, dismissed speculation that Akpabio’s handling of the matter appears politically motivated.

According to him, Akpabio never acted unilaterally but all his action were in full compliance with the Constitution and Senate rules.

He said, “That argument simply doesn’t hold water. Senator Godswill Akpabio has acted in full compliance with the Constitution and Senate rules. He has not personalised the issue, nor has he acted unilaterally. The Senate’s decision was a collective one, grounded in law, particularly Section 60 of the 1999 Constitution which grants each chamber the authority to regulate its proceedings. Additionally, Rule 14(2) of the Senate Standing Orders provides internal disciplinary mechanisms.

“She went to court, not the Senate. She made wild accusations, not the Senate President. The suspension came after due process. She was guilty of violation of order 6.1, 6.2 etc There’s nothing political about holding a Senator accountable to the rules of conduct governing the chamber.”

Asked if an apology would resolve the ongoing issue, Okolugbo added, “Absolutely. When she was suspended on March 6, the Senate inserted a clause — Proviso 2 — stating clearly that her suspension could be lifted immediately upon tendering a public apology to the Senate and its leadership. That shows magnanimity and fairness.

“Instead, she escalated the situation. Even Brekete Family, where she once went for sympathy, later advised her to apologise. She ignored that. Her defiance has dragged this issue far longer than necessary.

“It depends on her. If Senator Natasha tenders an apology and retracts her unfounded allegations — this can end immediately. But if she continues this performance, then legal processes will take their course.

‘She knew Ground 23 existed. She knew her appeal wasn’t about “content” alone. She has deceived the public — and perhaps even herself. Her actions do not reflect the conduct of a distinguished Senator. We can only hope reason prevails.”