The Senate on Thursday announced the replacement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs. She has been succeeded by Senator Aniekan Bassey, who represents Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District.
The announcement was made during plenary without any official explanation for the change. Senator Bassey is expected to assume his new role immediately.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was appointed to the Diaspora Committee on February 4, 2025, after her removal as Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content. Her latest removal reflects another subtle reshuffle within Senate committee leadership.
In a separate development, the Senate called on President Bola Tinubu to, on compassionate grounds, assist the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in paying ₦200 million as compensation to the family of two-year-old Ivan Omhonrina, who was tragically killed during an NDLEA operation in Asaba, Delta State.
This appeal followed a petition presented by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Senator Neda Imaseun. The incident occurred on July 13, 2023, when NDLEA operatives reportedly opened fire during a raid, fatally striking Ivan as he was returning home from school.
The tragedy provoked public outcry and demands for justice from civil society organizations and the bereaved family.
During plenary, lawmakers strongly condemned the child’s killing and urged the NDLEA to take full responsibility by covering the entire compensation demanded by the family. The Senate emphasized the importance of accountability within law enforcement, stating that such incidents must not be overlooked.
In honour of the young victim, the chamber observed a minute of silence. Additionally, the Senate directed its Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure implementation of the resolution and report back within two months.