Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has successfully entered the National Assembly complex in Abuja on Tuesday, following a dramatic standoff with security operatives who initially blocked her entry.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is currently under a six-month suspension imposed by the Senate, had earlier vowed to resume plenary, citing a recent court ruling that ordered her reinstatement. She maintains that the Senate is obligated to obey the verdict of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which she claims affirmed her right to resume legislative duties.
“I will be there,” she said during a constituency training programme held over the weekend. “Because the court did make a decision on that. Now, they argue that it’s not an order but a decision—but it is a judicial decision nonetheless,” she insisted, noting that she had already informed the Senate leadership of her plans to return.
Heightened Security Presence
Earlier on Tuesday, The PUNCH reported an unusual security build-up at the National Assembly complex, with stern-looking personnel stationed at various checkpoints. Eyewitnesses said that no fewer than five police patrol vehicles were strategically positioned at the entrance, while cars were subjected to thorough checks. Visitors were restricted to parking outside the main premises, a move believed to be in anticipation of Senator Natasha’s arrival.
When she eventually arrived in a black vehicle, her convoy—along with that of popular activist Aisha Yesufu, who was riding in a car ahead—was stopped by security agents and denied access into the complex.
Walked In Defiantly
Unwilling to be turned back, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stepped out of her vehicle and began walking towards the National Assembly gate, flanked by her aides and a group of vocal supporters. Despite the resistance, she proceeded on foot into the premises.
According to a report by Channels Television, the senator was later seen inside the National Assembly premises, even as security remained heavily deployed within and around the building.
Ongoing Legal and Political Drama
Her suspension, which many critics have described as politically motivated, has remained a contentious issue. While the Senate insists that her suspension stands, the Federal High Court ruling is widely interpreted as an instruction for her immediate recall. The leadership of the Senate, however, argues that the judgment is merely advisory and not binding.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s persistence in reclaiming her seat, despite stiff resistance from the Senate and intensified security presence, has drawn attention nationwide and may escalate tensions between the judiciary and the legislature in the days ahead.
The situation remains fluid, with political observers closely watching to see whether the Senate will ultimately allow her to resume her duties or take further disciplinary actions.
