Senator Natasha Returns To National Assembly, Denied Entry

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Denied Entry Despite Court Verdict

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to return to the National Assembly on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, ended in frustration as security operatives denied her access to the premises. The senator from Kogi Central had pledged to resume sittings following a court ruling directing the Senate to recall her after a six-month suspension.

Here are the Key Actions:

• Arrival and Denial: Senator Natasha arrived at the National Assembly around noon but was stopped at the first gate by security personnel. After walking in with her supporters, including prominent activist Aisha Yesufu, she was again stopped at the second gate and found the entrance locked.
• Legal Grounds: Her suspension, which began on March 6, followed allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and claims she had breached Senate rules. The Federal High Court later deemed the suspension illegal and ordered her recall.
• Senate's Response: Despite the court's decision, Senate President Akpabio has appealed the ruling. The Senate insists there is no binding order requiring her immediate reinstatement and asked her to await further Senate deliberations.
• Next Steps: Senator Natasha expressed displeasure over her denied entry and revealed plans to consult her legal team. She vowed to return after the Senate’s upcoming two-month recess.

Now let’s take story Further

Tensions Mount as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Faces Senate Roadblock

In a political drama unfolding at Nigeria’s National Assembly, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s determined effort to reclaim her seat faced fierce resistance, despite a court ruling in her favor.

Today, the lawmaker arrived at the Assembly grounds with vocal supporters and an unwavering sense of purpose. Escorted by activist Aisha Yesufu, she attempted to re-enter the legislative complex for her first sitting since her March 6 suspension. But multiple layers of security blocked her progress, culminating in a firmly shut gate at the final checkpoint.

Her suspension stemmed from claims that she violated Senate rules, an action she attributes to retaliation following her accusations of sexual harassment against the Senate President. A Federal High Court ruling recently declared the suspension unlawful and advised her recall, sparking her resolve to resume duties.

Yet, the Senate leadership maintains that the court’s decision was advisory, not mandatory. Spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu emphasized that any premature return would undermine legislative due process and the Senate’s integrity. The leadership insists Natasha must wait for formal communication regarding her status and any amendment to the Standing Orders.

The encounter leaves unanswered questions about institutional accountability and judicial authority. Will the Senate honor the court’s decision post-recess? Is the tension indicative of larger power struggles within the chamber?

For now, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has withdrawn, vowing to return when the Senate reconvenes. Her legal team is expected to chart the next steps, setting the stage for what may be another politically charged showdown.

Meanwhile, curtesy of Channels Television, check out the video coverage of senator Natasha’s experiences at the entrance of the National Assembly.