By Olatunbosun Obafemi
On Tuesday afternoon, the National Assembly complex in Abuja became the scene of heightened tension as suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to resume her legislative duties, insisting that a recent court ruling had nullified her suspension.
Arriving at exactly 12:20 p.m., the senator representing Kogi Central was flanked by a crowd of supporters, including prominent political activist Aisha Yesufu, all chanting slogans of solidarity.
The atmosphere outside the complex was charged. Supporters waved placards and sang as they followed Akpoti-Uduaghan to the main gate. However, they were met by a heavy security presence. Armed personnel from the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Sergeant-at-Arms firmly blocked all access to the Senate wing.
Addressing the crowd just outside the gate, Akpoti-Uduaghan stood defiantly atop a vehicle, a microphone in hand. “I was elected by the good people of Kogi Central to represent them, and I will not allow this mandate to be suppressed,” she declared. “The Federal High Court in Abuja has given a ruling that upholds the principles of justice and democracy. My suspension has no legal standing, and I am here to resume my duties, as the law permits.”
Supporters cheered, some holding aloft copies of the court judgment. But despite her insistence, the gates remained firmly shut.
The Senate, through its spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu, maintained its stance. In a statement released on Sunday, Adaramodu warned that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claim was based on a misinterpretation of the recent judgment by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court. “The Senate’s decision still stands,” he said. “The court ruling does not equate to reinstatement.”
The standoff highlights a growing constitutional rift between the judiciary and legislature, raising questions about legislative independence and judicial oversight. For now, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan remains barred from the chambers, but her actions have stirred a fresh wave of political activism and legal debate across the country.
