Oshiomhole clarifies comments, denies alleging forged signatures in Natasha suspension case

Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has clarified his remarks on the controversy surrounding the suspension of Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, denying that he ever alleged the forgery of any senator’s signature.

In a statement on Tuesday, Oshiomhole said his comments during a June 15 interview on AIT’s Politics Today were misinterpreted and taken out of context.

He stressed that he agreed with Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu that no senator’s signature was forged during the process that led to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension.

According to him, no lawmaker had reported any case of forged signature to him, adding that his only observation was a claim that attendance signatures of some senators were attached to the committee’s report.

Oshiomhole explained that his remarks were made in response to comments attributed to Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele regarding the suspension, which he described as being treated as credible due to Bamidele’s position.

He further maintained that the Senate has moved on from the matter and expressed regret if his comments caused any embarrassment to lawmakers or the institution.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 over allegations of gross misconduct linked to her accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The suspension resulted in her being barred from the National Assembly complex, the stoppage of her salary and allowances, and the sealing of her office.