Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, has officially returned to the National Assembly following the unsealing of her office after a six-month suspension.
The senator arrived at the National Assembly complex on Tuesday, September 23, accompanied by her supporters. This came just hours after the sergeant-at-arms unlocked her office, located at Suite 2.05 in the Senate wing.
Speaking with journalists before entering the office, Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed that she had seen media reports and video footage showing the Clerk of the Senate opening her office door while her legal team was still pursuing the matter in court.
She noted, however, that she had not received any formal communication from the National Assembly regarding her reinstatement.
“As at this moment, I have not been officially communicated to. I expect an institution like the National Assembly to follow administrative procedures, with written communication,” she said.
Akpoti-Uduaghan also referenced an earlier letter from the Clerk of the Senate stating that she was not permitted to resume duties, as the decision remained under the Senate’s jurisdiction. She explained that her presence on Tuesday was to briefly occupy her office, regardless.
Her arrival at the Senate wing entrance triggered a mild commotion as her supporters attempted to follow her inside. The senator appealed for calm, urging them to respect the sanctity of the legislative premises.
Addressing the crowd, she said, “Those of you who want to come, it is your office, your right to be there, just as it is your right to be here in the people’s parliament. But I ask that you remain quiet and calm.”
She expressed gratitude to her supporters, stating, “Your voices have been heard, your actions have been loud. Nigerians are proud of you, I am proud of you, and our ancestors are proud of you. Now, I will simply walk in.”
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate over alleged violations of its standing rules.
However, on July 4, a Federal High Court in Abuja declared the suspension “excessive and unconstitutional,” and urged the Senate to reconsider her reinstatement.
Despite the ruling, the management of the National Assembly had maintained that her return was not possible without a new resolution by the Senate or a binding court order.
Tuesday’s resumption marks the first time Akpoti-Uduaghan accessed her office since the suspension was enforced.
