Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Attends First Plenary Since Suspension

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP-Kogi Central) returned to the Senate chamber on Tuesday for her first plenary since a six-month suspension ended in September. The session resumed after a 10-week recess, with the lawmaker entering at 11:42 a.m. amid mixed reactions from colleagues. Dressed in white attire with a head tie and sunglasses, she took her minority section seat—the same one that ignited the original dispute. Her comeback, amid court battles, reignited talks on legislative accountability and gender issues in the National Assembly.

The March 6 suspension by the Senate Ethics Committee followed a February 20 clash over seating and her harassment petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Akpabio denied the allegations and justified the penalty for decorum. Akpoti-Uduaghan called it retaliation for challenging marginalization, refusing to apologize. Her office was unsealed on September 23, but legal delays held off her return until now.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin started proceedings at 11:15 a.m., passing to Akpabio after noon. Akpoti-Uduaghan shook hands with allies like Senators Seriake Dickson, Ogoshi Onawo, Gbenga Daniel, and Samaila Dahuwa. She stayed quiet during talks on security and economic bills, seated in the minority’s sixth row. Security ramped up at the complex, and supporters rallied outside with solidarity chants.

Her return highlights Senate power struggles in the a. With appeals pending, including a contempt fine, her role could ease or worsen tensions. Lawmakers whispered of potential debate boosts, but past rifts linger, hinting at future drama. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s presence signals resilience against adversity.