Imasuen takes the spotlight as the senate braces for a high-stakes showdown as its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions takes center stage in the unfolding Natasha-Akpabio drama.
As tensions continue to rise between Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, the senate committee on ethics, privileges, and public petition is expected to launch a formal investigation into the altercations and allegations involving the two lawmakers.
Parliament Reports recalls that following a heated exchange on the senate floor two Thursdays ago, the senate resolved to refer Sen. Natasha to its disciplinary committee for further scrutiny. The committee has been tasked with investigating the matter and is expected to submit its findings within two weeks before the senate makes a final decision.
Imasuen: Role of the senate ethics committee
The senate committee on ethics, privileges, and public petitions serves as a crucial arm of the national assembly, functioning as an internal oversight body and a dispute resolution mechanism. It plays a vital role in safeguarding the democratic process by addressing ethical concerns and ensuring accountability among public officials.
This committee is responsible for handling petitions from the public, providing Nigerians with an avenue to express grievances against public officers, institutions, or corporate organizations. It offers a flexible, non-adversarial platform for citizens to seek redress, avoiding the complexities of litigation. The committee’s procedures are designed to be accessible, cost-free, and time-efficient, creating an environment where complainants can speak freely.
In line with the senate’s standing rules, the committee is mandated to investigate petitions from individuals, corporate entities, or any concerned party regarding the conduct of government agencies or officials. While it has the power to conduct fact-finding investigations, it does not possess legislative or resolution-making authority.
Profile of Imasuen, the committee chairman
At the helm of the committee is Sen. Neda Bernards Imasuen (LP, Edo south), a legal practitioner, administrator, and politician. Elected in 2023, he represents Edo south senatorial district in the senate.
Educational and professional background
Born on June 29, 1957, in Benin City, Edo State, Sen. Imasuen’s early education began at St. Thomas Catholic School, Ogbe, before proceeding to Edo Boys High School, where he obtained his West African School Certificate. He furthered his education at the University of Maiduguri, earning a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree and was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985. He later obtained a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus, New York, in 2004.
Legal and consultancy career
The first term senator began his professional journey in New York, practicing law and serving as a public advocate for several years. Transitioning into international consultancy, he returned to Nigeria in 2010 to work as a State Coordinator for the European Union’s State Reforming Institutional Program (SRIP) in Jigawa State.
He later joined the Nigerian Governors’ Forum as a Policy Consultant, working on the State Peer Review Mechanism Projects (SPRM). Between 2014 and 2015, he contributed to Nigeria’s financial sector by serving as a legislative consultant for a World Bank Project in collaboration with SEEFOR in Asaba, Delta State, where he reportedly played a key role in shaping the Single Treasury Account (TSA) policy.
Legislative experience and political career
Before his election to the senate, Sen. Imasuen served as a Senior Legislative Aide to his predecessor, Sen. Matthew Urhoghide, for two terms (2015-2022). In 2023, he successfully contested and won the Edo south senatorial election under the Labour Party.
As a lawmaker, Sen. Imasuen has been recognised for his contributions to legislative affairs and governance. He has received multiple awards, including Legislator of the Year, for his dedication to public service and the development of Edo State.
Advocacy and legislative contributions
Sen. Imasuen is known for his advocacy on issues such as education and governance reform. In a recent engagement at OrderPaper Parliamentary Engagement Nigeria (OPEN) Space, he participated in a discussion themed “Breaking Barriers: Addressing Educational Inequality through the Student Loan Act.” He emphasised the need for a collaborative effort between the government and commercial banks to provide student loans at lower interest rates, ensuring broader access to education..
Read more on his contributions here.
Awaiting the committee’s findings
With tensions boiling over and allegations flying, all eyes are now on this important committee as it embarks on a decisive investigation into the Natasha-Akpabio controversy that could shape the political landscape of the senate.
As political observers and stakeholders eagerly await the outcome of its deliberations, the outcome of this probe will not only test the senate’s commitment to discipline and due process but could also redefine power dynamics within the legislature.
Further updates on this developing situation will be provided as more information becomes available.
