In a quiet but notable reshuffle, the Nigerian Senate on Thursday removed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, replacing her with Senator Aniekan Bassey, who represents Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District.
The decision, announced during plenary, was made without an official explanation, marking the second committee shake-up involving Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan this year.
She was previously relieved of her role as Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content in February, only to be appointed to the Diaspora Committee shortly after.
Political analysts have described the reshuffle as part of a broader effort to recalibrate leadership across key Senate committees, although the lack of transparency surrounding her removal has sparked speculation within legislative circles.
Senator Bassey, a former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and known ally of the Senate leadership, is expected to assume his new responsibilities immediately.
Senate Urges Tinubu to Support ₦200 Million Compensation for Slain Toddler
In a separate but emotionally charged session, the Senate passed a resolution urging President Bola Tinubu to direct the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to pay ₦200 million in compensation to the family of two-year-old Ivan Omhonrina, who was tragically killed during an NDLEA raid in Asaba, Delta State, on July 13, 2023.
The motion followed a petition presented by Senator Neda Imaseun, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ethics. Lawmakers condemned the incident in strong terms and demanded that the NDLEA take full responsibility for what they described as a “gross failure in operational judgment.”
Video evidence and eyewitness accounts confirmed that the toddler was returning from school when NDLEA operatives opened fire during a botched operation in Okpanam, Oshimili North LGA. Ivan’s older brother was also injured in the crossfire.
“This tragedy cannot go unanswered,” said one lawmaker, echoing the sentiments of several colleagues who stressed the importance of accountability within law enforcement agencies. “We must set a precedent that innocent lives—especially those of children—must never be collateral damage in security operations.”
To honour the slain toddler, the chamber observed a minute of silence. The Senate further directed its Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure implementation of the resolution and to report back within 60 days.
