It’s Senate Protocol — Natasha Clarifies Invitation to Akpabio
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has clarified that her invitation to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other lawmakers for project inaugurations in Kogi State was issued in strict compliance with legislative protocol.
The senator, who recently marked her second year in office, had on Thursday extended an invitation to Akpabio and her colleagues to attend the commissioning of projects in her constituency — barely two months after her reinstatement from suspension.
In a statement, Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that she followed proper parliamentary procedure by sending her invitation through the Senate President and ensuring that it was officially read during plenary.
“Today, as is customary for announcements of such nature, I wrote a letter to the Senate through the presiding officer to the Senate President to read on the floor,” she said.
She added that the invitation was made public to foster unity and transparency among colleagues rather than appear as a private celebration.
“I put out the invitation so it wouldn’t seem like I was celebrating in isolation. I’m a progressive person. Even with ongoing court cases, I continue to carry out my duties in the chamber and follow proper procedures,” she stated.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that her actions reflected a deep respect for institutional norms and due process, noting that the upcoming event was about service delivery and community impact, not personal recognition.