Tension at National Assembly: Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Denied Entry by Security Operatives Despite Court Ruling
Abuja, July 23, 2025 — Drama unfolded at the National Assembly on Tuesday as suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, was denied access into the National Assembly complex by heavily armed security operatives. The incident has sparked renewed debates over legislative accountability, judicial compliance, and the growing political tension within Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is currently serving a six-month suspension handed down by the Senate, had earlier vowed to resume legislative duties, citing a recent judgment by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja. According to her, the ruling affirms her right to be reinstated and participate fully in legislative activities pending the outcome of her legal challenge against the Senate’s disciplinary action.
Court Ruling and Natasha’s Defiant Stand
Addressing reporters during a constituency engagement over the weekend, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan declared her intention to return to plenary, emphasizing that the court’s verdict was clear on her status.
“The Federal High Court has given its judgment. Whether the Senate agrees to call it an order or not, it remains a judicial decision,” she said. “I have written to the Senate President notifying him of my intention to resume, and I will be at the National Assembly.”
Her comments came amid growing public support, especially from civil society organizations and human rights advocates who insist that her continued suspension violates democratic principles and the rule of law.
A Showdown at the Gates
On Tuesday morning, Natasha arrived at the National Assembly complex in a black SUV accompanied by a small convoy that included well-known rights activist Aisha Yesufu. However, they were stopped at the first security checkpoint by operatives who had been deployed in unusually large numbers since early morning.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as tense, with uniformed personnel refusing to let any vehicle in the convoy proceed beyond the main gate. Several journalists, staff members, and passersby watched as the standoff persisted for over 30 minutes.
“They told us they were acting on orders from above,” said one of Natasha’s aides, who spoke to HeadlineNews under anonymity. “They didn’t even bother checking her ID. They just said she was not allowed in.”
The situation escalated when the senator, undeterred by the restriction, stepped out of her car and attempted to walk into the complex on foot, accompanied by a group of her supporters. Her determination to access the building drew cheers from some bystanders but was once again met with resistance at the second checkpoint, where the main gates had already been locked.
Security Operatives Tighten Grip
Reports indicate that no fewer than five patrol vehicles belonging to the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) were stationed at various strategic points around the complex. Heavily armed officers were seen screening everyone attempting to enter, including staff and media personnel. Several visitors were turned back, while others were told to wait indefinitely at the outer car park.
The tightened security has been linked to concerns by the Senate leadership over potential disruption of proceedings and growing fears that Natasha’s presence may galvanize public protests or cause legislative unrest.
Reactions from the Senate and Public
Despite widespread expectations that the court’s decision would lead to her reinstatement, the Senate has refused to budge. On Sunday, the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, through its chairman, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, dismissed Natasha’s interpretation of the court ruling, stating that the judgment was “advisory” in nature and not binding on the upper chamber.
“The court did not issue a mandatory order directing the Senate to lift the suspension. The judgment only offered an opinion that is subject to legal interpretation,” Adaramodu said.
The Senate’s position has been sharply criticized by legal scholars, opposition politicians, and civil society groups, many of whom accuse the Senate of undermining judicial authority.
“The refusal to comply with a valid court judgment sets a dangerous precedent,” said Barr. Ifeoma Okonkwo, a constitutional lawyer based in Abuja. “This is not just about Senator Natasha; it is about whether the legislature believes it is above the law.”
On social media, Nigerians expressed mixed reactions. While some criticized the senator for attempting to “force her way” back into the chamber, many others lauded her courage and questioned the Senate’s commitment to democratic principles.
Implications and the Road Ahead
This latest standoff is just the latest episode in what has become a prolonged legal and political drama between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership. Her suspension earlier this year was mired in controversy, with some alleging it was politically motivated and aimed at silencing her growing influence.
Political analysts say the incident may have broader implications for Nigeria’s democracy, especially in the balance of power between the judiciary and legislature.
“We are entering dangerous territory when court rulings are treated as suggestions,” said Dr. Musa Bala, a lecturer in Political Science at Ahmadu Bello University. “The Senate must tread carefully. Today it’s Natasha, tomorrow it could be any other lawmaker or citizen.”
As of press time, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had returned to her residence after being denied access. Her legal team is reportedly preparing a fresh application to seek the enforcement of the court’s decision, possibly escalating the matter to the Court of Appeal.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly remains under heightened security, and the Senate leadership has yet to issue an official statement on Tuesday’s confrontation.
For now, the question remains: Can a duly elected senator be locked out of the legislature in defiance of a court ruling—and what does this mean for the rule of law in Nigeria?
More updates to follow as the story develops.
