Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has characterized the Nigerian Senate as operating like a "cult," alleging that lawmakers are hesitant to express dissenting opinions due to fear of retaliation.

In a BBC interview, she further accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, recounting incidents where he allegedly made suggestive remarks and gestures towards her.

These allegations emerged following Akpoti-Uduaghan's six-month suspension from the Senate on March 6 for "gross misconduct," which she contends is a tactic to silence her.

The Senate's Deputy Chief Whip, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, refuted her claims, stating that Akpabio never acted inappropriately and that her suspension was not an attempt to suppress dissent.

This situation has sparked national discussions on gender dynamics and transparency within Nigeria's legislative body, highlighting the challenges faced by female lawmakers in a predominantly male institution.