Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, expressed profound gratitude for life and the chance to return to her legislative duties, speaking to Arise News on Tuesday.

“I am glad to be alive and to resume work today,” she said, reflecting on weeks of political tension and health challenges that had kept her sidelined.

The senator’s remarks come amid heightened anticipation surrounding her return to the National Assembly, following a controversial six-month suspension imposed by the Senate in March.

Over the weekend, Akpoti-Uduaghan announced she had formally notified the Senate leadership of her intention to resume her duties, citing a recent court decision ordering her recall.

She reiterated this during a constituency training program, telling journalists she had written to the Upper Chamber to affirm her return.

On Tuesday, however, her attempt to enter the National Assembly was met with resistance.

Accompanied by activist Aisha Yesufu, rights advocate Mama P, activist Randy, and a group of supporters, the senator arrived at the National Assembly gate, only to be stopped by security personnel.

Eyewitnesses reported a heated confrontation, with security operatives barring her convoy from entering the premises.

Aisha Yesufu, visibly frustrated, challenged the officials’ actions, stating, “The National Assembly is meant to be for everyone. Why are you stopping us?

“We are law-abiding doesn’t mean we are cowards.”

Tensions escalated as supporters chanted “Push!” in an attempt to breach the barricade.

Undeterred, Akpoti-Uduaghan and her supporters marched toward the complex, singing solidarity songs in a show of defiance.

The senator eventually gained entry on foot, as previously reported, marking a dramatic return to her legislative duties.