The Nigerian Senate has prompted a security investigation into how Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan gained access to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in New York without government approval.
The probe, led by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), seeks to uncover whether she received external assistance to bypass accreditation protocols.
Security sources revealed that Nigeria strictly adheres to IPU regulations, which require the formal nomination of delegates.
While observers may attend under certain conditions, their presence must be cleared by both the IPU and their home country.
However, authorities argue that Akpoti-Uduaghan did not obtain the necessary approvals before speaking at the March 11 session.
During the meeting, she accused the Nigerian Senate of politically targeting her through suspension and raised concerns about sexual harassment within the legislature.
The IPU acknowledged her statements but assured that Nigeria’s official position would also be considered.
Back in Nigeria, lawmakers strongly opposed her claims. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele questioned how she gained access, reiterating that only officially recognized delegates could represent Nigeria.
He criticized her for using Nigeria’s designated seat at the event and presenting personal grievances instead of the country’s stance.
Similarly, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Activities, emphasized that Akpoti-Uduaghan was not an accredited representative of Nigeria.
The DSS and NIA are now investigating key aspects of the case, including whether external facilitators aided her participation, if she violated IPU or Nigerian parliamentary protocols, and whether her statements at the meeting misrepresented Nigeria’s position.
The inquiry will also examine if individuals or organizations helped her gain unauthorized entry to the high-profile event.