Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan shares how she attended the IPU meeting in New York despite not being officially nominated by the Nigerian government
Embattled Nigerian Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has revealed how she successfully participated in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in New York, despite not being officially nominated by the Nigerian government.
In a candid interview, Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that her attendance was made possible through her personal efforts and her prior involvement with the international parliamentary body.
Speaking to Premium Times, the senator clarified that she registered for the event online as a senator and was able to secure her accreditation, having been on the IPU’s mailing list due to her participation in previous meetings.
“I registered online as a senator. The suspension does not remove my legitimacy as a senator.
I registered online and got a pass,” she said, addressing questions surrounding her suspension and the legitimacy of her attendance.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has faced political challenges recently, also confirmed that she personally funded her trip to New York.
She disclosed that after receiving her accreditation, she bought her own ticket and covered all expenses related to her participation in the global parliamentary event.
“I attended the same programme last year and was already on the mailing list. After I got a pass, I bought my own ticket and funded my trip and participation at the event,” she added.
The senator’s attendance at the IPU meeting has sparked considerable attention, with many questioning how she was able to participate without official government backing.
However, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s explanation highlights her proactive approach in ensuring her continued involvement in international parliamentary discussions despite the hurdles she faces in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s independent funding and registration underscore her determination to maintain a presence in global political forums, even in the face of adversity.
Her attendance at the event serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics between government support and individual political legitimacy.
