Natasha attends Senate plenary after suspension
The embattled Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, made a much-anticipated return to the Senate on Tuesday, marking the end of her six-month suspension that sparked nationwide debate earlier this year.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was seen smiling as the Senate resumed plenary following a 10-week recess, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio presiding over the session. Her return drew public attention, as she was accompanied by a small group of activists and loyalists, including prominent social crusader Aisha Yesufu, who was spotted in the gallery. However, other supporters who came with her were reportedly denied entry into the chamber.
The lawmaker walked confidently into the Senate chamber, greeted a few colleagues, and took her seat, symbolizing her reinstatement to legislative duties.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s comeback follows her March 2025 suspension, which lasted six months. She had been suspended over alleged misconduct during her protest against the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Akpabio on February 20. The suspension drew heavy criticism from civil rights groups and members of the public who described the move as politically motivated and a suppression of dissenting voices within the chamber.
During her suspension, her office—Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing—was sealed by the National Assembly authorities on March 6, 2025. However, it was reopened two weeks ago by Deputy Director of the Sergeant-at-Arms, Alabi Adedeji, signaling the end of the disciplinary measure.
Upon her return, Senator Natasha did not shy away from her earlier position, describing Akpabio as a “dictator” in a media chat shortly after she regained access to her office.
Tuesday’s plenary recorded a significant turnout of lawmakers, suggesting a full return to legislative activities as the upper chamber reconvened.
Observers say Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return could reignite debates on leadership style, freedom of expression, and gender representation in Nigeria’s political landscape.