Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has defended her decision to invite Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other lawmakers to the commissioning of several constituency projects in Kogi State, saying the gesture followed due legislative protocol and was not personal.
The senator, who recently returned from a six-month suspension, extended the invitation to her colleagues through a formal letter to the Senate President.
“In marking my second year as a serving senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I wish to invite my distinguished colleagues to join me for projects inauguration in Kogi State,” her letter read.
Speaking on the invitation, Akpoti-Uduaghan clarified that it was in line with parliamentary procedures. “It wasn’t meant to appear like a private celebration. As a progressive legislator, I followed due process by notifying the Senate officially. Even with ongoing court cases, I continue to discharge my duties responsibly,” she said.
Reflecting on her experience in the last two years, the lawmaker recounted her suspension ordeal. “Today marks my second year in office, though six months were lost to an illegal suspension. I thank God that despite efforts to declare my seat vacant, I overcame those challenges,” she said.
She revealed that her project inauguration series in Kogi would include the launch of a water project, streetlights, transformers, a police quarters, a new primary and secondary school, and two modern markets across local government areas.
Background
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate in March 2025 for allegedly breaching standing rules following a confrontation with the Senate President. The decision sparked public outrage, with many describing it as politically motivated.
The PDP senator challenged her suspension in court but served the full six-month term before being reinstated in September 2025. She officially resumed duties on October 7, after the National Assembly reconvened from its recess.
Despite lingering court proceedings, Akpoti-Uduaghan said her focus remains on delivering dividends of democracy to her constituents.
