Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been refused entry into the Senate chamber despite gaining access to the national assembly premises.
The Kogi Central lawmaker, who had earlier declared her intention to resume legislative duties, arrived at the National Assembly in a black SUV.
She was accompanied by human rights activist Aisha Yesufu. However, security personnel at the entrance denied them access to the complex where plenary is currently ongoing.
After a brief delay at the gate, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stepped out of her vehicle and attempted to walk into the complex on foot, but was again blocked by security officers at the complex.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempted return follows a recent ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which declared her six-month suspension “unlawful and excessive.” The court also held that the Senate lacked the constitutional authority to bar an elected lawmaker from representing their constituents for such an extended period.
The senator was suspended on March 6, 2025, after the Senate, acting on the recommendations of its Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, accused her of violating the chamber’s Standing Orders by speaking without recognition, refusing to sit in her assigned seat, and engaging in “unruly and disruptive conduct.”
Despite the court’s ruling, the Senate maintains that Akpoti-Uduaghan must remain away from proceedings until the leadership reaches a final decision on the matter.