— WHY LEGISLATIVE RULES MUST BE RESPECTED ~ DAVID CHIEDOZIE, NWAENYI
All over the world (where parliament exists), suspension of a lawmaker is often seen as a punitive measure. However, beyond the disciplinary action, suspension serves as a critical period of reflection, learning, and recalibration. While serving suspension, the suspended lawmaker studies and gains firsthand experience of political consequences, governance ethics, and the power of institutional order. More importantly, the legislature itself reinforces its credibility and authority by upholding its own rules. 
I carefully followed the events that led to the suspension of Sen. Natasha Akpoti and as a growing lawmaker (both in theory and practice), it is an opportunity for me to learn more on how to engage, handle political disagreements and/or disputes. A lawmaker must realize that no one is above the rules, regardless of their influence, experience, or political connections. It is important to note that the legislature operates as a structured body where order, respect, and discipline are paramount. Suspension therefore teaches a lawmaker that reckless actions, misconduct, and/or defiance of parliamentary procedures have consequences.
Note also that the legislature derives its authority from its ability to enforce discipline without fear or favor. 
If lawmakers are allowed to violate rules without consequences, it sets a dangerous precedent, eroding public trust in the ability of the parliament to self-regulate.
The first major lesson I leant from Hon. Austine Chukwukere is that public service is deeply tied to perception. As a politician, you are as big/relevant as your public perception. This knowledge is guiding my activities in everything I do as a leader. So, Sen. Akpoti’s suspension will bring an immediate reputation crisis, as her constituents, political allies, and the media begin to scrutinize the her actions. That’s why I’m certain that in this period of suspension, Sen. Natasha will learn that character, integrity, and respect for the institution are just as important as her political ambition. The period of suspension will becomes for her a time of damage control, image rebuilding, and strategic repositioning.
On the part of the Senate, I hold the thought that every legislature must have and maintain public confidence in its processes. If misconduct is tolerated by any legislature, it sends the message that lawmakers are untouchable, leading to political distrust and public discontent. However, by enforcing rules like the Senate standing order, the legislature preserves its reputation as a principled institution.
During suspension, a suspended lawmaker experiences firsthand the realities of political survival. Some allies remain supportive, while others distance themselves to protect their own political interests. This period will teach Sen. Natasha that politics is about relationships, and one’s conduct determines the strength of their support system. Those who uphold decorum and respect legislative rules are more likely to have allies who defend them in difficult times. And those who frequently defy rules or disrespect the institution often find themselves isolated.
I do not think suspension is the end of Senator Akpoti’s political career. Rather, it is an opportunity for reflection, repentance, and redemption. The most politically astute lawmakers use a period like this to engage in personal rebranding and reconnect with their constituents; apologize for misconduct and rebuild relationships where necessary; return with a better understanding of the legislature’s rules, expectations and an improved political strategy; many suspended lawmakers who learnt from their mistakes return with a stronger sense of discipline, humility, and respect for the institution. Because a strong legislature does not just punish – it corrects, reforms, and offers a path for redemption.
I can attest that the goal of the suspension of Sen. Akpoti is not just to discipline her but to maintain a culture of discipline, respect, as well as uphold democratic principles.
In my opinion, a legislature remains strong when it balances authority with fairness, ensuring that discipline is applied without bias, vengeance, or political victimization. The rule was not made for any individual punishment but about institutional preservation. Without discipline, the legislative arm of government loses its credibility, authority, and respect. By enforcing ethical conduct, and parliamentary order, the legislature protects democracy, strengthens governance, and ensures that lawmakers truly serve the people with accountability and responsibility.
I am David Nwaenyi and I’m certain that in the end, both Senator Natasha Akpoti, Senator Godswill Akpabio (President of Senate) and the Nigerian Senate will benefit from upholding legislative discipline – because without order, democracy cannot thrive.
