By Erewunmi Peace

The Nigerian Senate has officially named Senator Aniekan Bassey (Akwa Ibom North-East) as the new Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations, replacing Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central).

The announcement was made during Wednesday’s plenary session by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. While no formal reason was provided during the session, political observers link the leadership change to Senator Natasha’s ongoing suspension from legislative duties.

Senator Natasha, a prominent voice in the 10th National Assembly, has been absent from Senate activities since her controversial suspension earlier in the year. The decision to relieve her of her chairmanship has drawn attention as her supporters continue to demand her reinstatement.

Senator Aniekan Bassey, a former Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and an experienced lawmaker, is expected to steer the committee through its oversight of diaspora affairs and non-governmental organizations.

The reshuffle underscores the Senate’s strategic adjustments in committee leadership as it navigates key legislative priorities amid ongoing political tensions.