https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duB0IMMFoac?si=wFC-MB6REULfsh2V
During the Senate sitting on October 21, 2025, a mild drama unfolded involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and Senator Adams Oshiomhole. The exchange began when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan sought to comment further on the abortion clause in the Criminal Code Amendment Bill, 2025, even after the issue had allegedly already been referred to a committee.
According to our gathering, The bill under discussion seeks to introduce tougher penalties for sexual offenses, including life imprisonment for offenders found guilty of defiling minors. However, during deliberations, lawmakers decided to suspend further debate on sections relating to abortion and pregnancy termination. The decision came amid concerns that unclear wording could endanger women’s lives in medical emergencies or expose doctors to possible legal risks.
Consequently, the controversial clauses were referred to the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters for a detailed review, with a report expected within two weeks. Though that part was not captured in the video
The clash:
After the matter had been formally stepped down, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to revisit the abortion clause, insisting she should be allowed to speak since the issue directly affects women. However, Senator Adams Oshiomhole quickly objected, raising a point of order. He argued that parliamentary rules forbid reopening discussions on a matter that has already been concluded, stressing that allowing one senator to speak would mean reopening the floor for everyone.
In his ruling, Senate President Godswill Akpabio upheld Oshiomhole’s objection, referencing Senate Rule 52(6). He maintained that since the Senate had already taken a position to step down the matter, it would be out of order to revisit it.
The brief confrontation underscored the strict adherence to parliamentary procedure and the growing tension between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership. The bill was later forwarded to the appropriate committee for further examination as earlier resolved.
However, the video of the exchange has sparked mixed reactions online. While some viewers believe Senator Natasha was only seeking to express her viewpoint as a woman, others claim she was deliberately shut down due to the ongoing rift between her and the Senate President.
What do you think about this? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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