The embattled Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Tuesday, made a dramatic return to the Senate after serving a six-month suspension.
Smiling as she entered the red chamber, Akpoti-Uduaghan joined her colleagues for the first plenary session since the National Assembly resumed from its 10-week recess, presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The senator was accompanied by several activists and loyal supporters, including social critic Aisha Yesufu, who was spotted in the gallery. While a few of her supporters were allowed into the chamber, others were reportedly denied entry. Upon arrival, Akpoti-Uduaghan exchanged pleasantries with some senators before settling into her seat.
Her suspension in March 2025 followed allegations of misconduct linked to her protest over the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Akpabio on February 20. Since then, her office—Suite 2.05 in the Senate Wing—had been locked by the National Assembly authorities.
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Two weeks ago, the office was unsealed by the Deputy Director of the National Assembly Sergeant-at-Arms, Alabi Adedeji, signaling preparations for her reinstatement. During her return to the office, Akpoti-Uduaghan reportedly described the Senate President as a “dictator,” a statement that drew public attention.
Tuesday’s plenary recorded a high turnout of lawmakers, marking a full resumption of legislative activities at the National Assembly.
