“I Was Expelled and Silenced for Standing by My Principles” — Hon. Fatumata Speaks on Senator Natasha’s Suspension

The controversy surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha Ako Dwanga from the Nigerian Senate continues to draw widespread debate across the country and the African continent.

Speaking during an Arise TV interview on September 11, 2025, Honorable Fatumata Nay, a member of the Pan-African Parliament and former ECOWAS Parliamentarian, condemned the prolonged suspension of the Kogi Central senator, stressing that her six-month suspension has already expired and should not be unlawfully extended.

Drawing from her personal political journey, Fatumata recalled how she was expelled from her own party and removed from parliament for refusing to compromise her values.

“I’ve been expelled from my party and removed from parliament for standing by my principles. I know what it feels like to be silenced,” she said, linking her experience to Senator Natasha’s plight.


Legal experts have also weighed in, warning that keeping Natasha away from her legislative duties beyond the suspension period undermines parliamentary credibility. By law, once a suspension ends, a senator is free to resume duties unless a fresh motion is passed.

Fatumata emphasized that this issue goes beyond Natasha as an individual — it reflects the systemic challenges women face in politics. She argued that arbitrary suspensions and administrative delays discourage women from aspiring to leadership and weaken the push for gender equality in governance.

Observers are now calling on the Senate President to uphold due process, reinstate Senator Natasha, and restore proper representation to the people of Kogi Central. Many warn that failing to act will damage Nigeria’s image as a standard-bearer for democratic practices in West Africa.

The case is seen as a test of Nigeria’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and the protection of democratic principles — with women’s political participation at the heart of the debate.