There was tension at the National Assembly complex in Abuja on Tuesday when security operatives barred suspended Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, from accessing the premises.
The lawmaker arrived at the gate accompanied by prominent activist Aisha Yesufu, rights campaigner Mama P, fellow activist Randy, and a group of supporters, but was stopped by security personnel stationed at the entrance.
In a heated exchange, Yesufu confronted the officers, demanding an explanation for the restriction.
“The National Assembly is for all Nigerians. Why are you stopping us?” she asked.
“Our silence is not weakness,” she added as tensions rose.
The standoff intensified as supporters of Akpoti-Uduaghan chanted “Push!” and attempted to move toward the complex, but security forces stood firm.
Senator Reacts
Speaking to journalists afterward, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed disappointment over the Senate’s refusal to comply with a court ruling that, according to her, supports her return to legislative duties.
“This is about a duly elected senator trying to resume constitutional duties.
I wrote two formal letters to the Senate leadership notifying them of my resumption on July 22, 2025, yet I was denied access,” she said.
She also condemned the heavy presence of armed police officers at the gate, calling it an intimidation tactic.
“It was shocking to be met by so many armed men, charging at an unarmed female senator. Nigerians witnessed this,” she said.
Alleged Defiance of Court Ruling
Akpoti-Uduaghan accused the Senate of ignoring a valid court decision, stressing that attempts to twist the interpretation of the ruling were misleading.
“Some media reports claim the court merely gave a ‘recommendation’ and not an order. That’s false.
According to Section 318 of the Constitution, a court decision—be it a decree, sentence, order, conviction, or recommendation—is binding.
And Section 287(3) makes it clear: such decisions are enforceable by all authorities, including the National Assembly.”
She also disputed claims that the Senate had appealed the ruling.
“Let me be clear. The Senate has not appealed the judgment. The National Assembly has not appealed it.
What exists is a personal appeal by Senator Godswill Akpabio, who included the Senate, the Clerk, and the Committee on Ethics as joint respondents.”
“That means Akpabio is challenging a ruling that involves his own institution,” she said, waving the legal document as proof.
Next Steps
Akpoti-Uduaghan, visibly frustrated, said she would explore legal means to address what she described as “brazen disregard for the rule of law.”
“I will not relent. This is not just about me, it’s about democratic values and the integrity of our institutions,” she concluded.
The incident drew mixed reactions online and on the ground, with many questioning the Senate’s commitment to upholding judicial authority. The matter has now taken on broader political and legal dimensions.
