Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Tuesday made a dramatic return to the National Assembly complex in Abuja, defying her suspension by the Senate as security presence was visibly heightened at the complex entrance.
Supporters of the embattled lawmaker from Kogi Central gathered in large numbers outside the parliament, cheering her arrival as stern-faced security operatives conducted thorough checks on vehicles and restricted general access to the premises.
Eyewitnesses noted that at least five police patrol vans were stationed at strategic points around the Assembly gate, a move believed to be in anticipation of the lawmaker’s return.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 by the Senate over undisclosed issues. However, she insists a recent court decision justifies her reinstatement.
“I will be there because the court made a decision on that,” she told journalists during a constituency training session over the weekend. “They may argue it’s not a court order, but a decision is still a legal declaration.”
She noted that while the suspension had not stopped her from implementing constituency projects, it had hindered her legislative responsibilities such as bill sponsorship and debates.
Her legal counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria West Idahosa, echoed her position. “Attending plenary is a legislative action,” he explained in a phone interview. “She remains a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The decision to return is her constitutional right, and we await the Senate’s reaction.”
The Senate, however, appears unfazed. Its spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, reaffirmed on Sunday that the suspension remains in force, stating, “There is no existing court order compelling the Senate to reverse its decision.”
In a show of solidarity, prominent activist Aisha Yesufu pledged to accompany the senator into the chamber.
Speaking on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily, Yesufu criticised the Senate’s actions, calling the suspension unconstitutional. “This is impunity. The judiciary made a pronouncement, and the Senate cannot act like it’s above the law,” she said.
Meanwhile, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s aide, Isah Bala, could not confirm the details of the senator’s re-entry plan. “We just returned from an event in Okene. I’ll provide an update later,” he said in a brief response.