Prominent socio-political activist, Aisha Yesufu, on Tuesday, accompanied suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the National Assembly, but both were denied entry into the complex by security operatives.

This comes just a day after Yesufu publicly declared support for the embattled senator, asserting that Akpoti-Uduaghan has every legal right to resume her legislative duties as the representative of Kogi Central Senatorial District.

Upon arrival at the National Assembly, Yesufu and Akpoti-Uduaghan were met with heavily armed security personnel and a locked gate, despite the senator’s earlier notification to the Senate and Inspector-General of Police of her intention to resume, following a court ruling that nullified her suspension.

Visibly agitated, Yesufu demanded to know who ordered the blockade.

She stated, “National Assembly is meant to be for everyone. Why are you stopping us?”

Expressing her anger, Yesufu accused the Senate leadership of attempting to silence a legitimate voice, warning that peaceful conduct should not be mistaken for weakness.

“Because we are law-abiding doesn’t mean we are cowards. Do they want to kill us?” she said as she stood her ground outside the gate.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempted return to the Red Chamber follows a recent Federal High Court judgment which ruled her suspension unconstitutional and excessive. Despite this, the Senate maintains her suspension remains valid, citing an appeal filed by Senate President Akpabio.

Her decision to attend the plenary session on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, sparked an increased security presence and tension at the National Assembly complex.