On October 7, 2025, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Senator for Kogi Central, returned to the Senate following a six-month suspension that had kept her away from legislative duties. This development marks the conclusion of an intense legal struggle, one that saw her facing severe challenges, from the suspension to subsequent legal battles, all of which she insists were unjust.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, which began in March 2025, was officially linked to a protest she led against Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s reassignment of her seat. The protest, which took place on February 20, escalated into accusations of misconduct, leading to the controversial suspension of the Senator from the Red Chamber. For months, the suspended lawmaker was excluded from all Senate activities, as her office was locked, and her ability to contribute to national discourse was curtailed.
The decision to extend the Senate’s recess from September 23 to October 7 further delayed her return. However, on this day, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team, led by Victor Giwa, confirmed that she had served the full term of her suspension and would resume her duties without hindrance.
“We are confident that our client has met all the legal requirements, and it is time for her to return to her legislative responsibilities,” Giwa stated. “The Senate must adhere to its own rules and resolutions, and any attempt to prevent her resumption would be unlawful.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan, known for her tenacity and outspoken nature, has made it clear that she bears no regret for her actions. Speaking after her office was unsealed in late September, she insisted that the struggle had only fortified her resolve. “We survived this unjust suspension and the baseless accusations. I have no apology to tender,” she said, emphasizing her belief that the Senate leadership’s treatment of her was authoritarian.
Her suspension stemmed from an incident in which Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Akpabio of wielding excessive power by attempting to reassign her seat in a manner she described as undemocratic. Her criticism extended to his leadership style, which she condemned as dictatorial. Despite the support she garnered from some quarters, the controversy underscored the tension between the executive leadership of the Senate and its members, particularly those who challenge its authority.
Upon the unsealing of her office, Akpoti-Uduaghan took to social media to express her defiance. She criticized Akpabio’s leadership in no uncertain terms, calling it “unacceptable.” She also noted the toll the suspension had taken on her but reiterated that she was ready to resume her duties with renewed vigor. “No one is more Nigerian than I am. Senator Akpabio is not more of a senator than I am,” she remarked. “I am here today because the law supports me, not because I am backing down in the face of injustice.”
Despite her suspension lapsing in September, her return was delayed due to legal uncertainties surrounding the legitimacy of the Senate’s decision. The situation placed the National Assembly in a difficult position, where the outcome of any future legal challenges would likely determine whether the suspension was valid from a legal standpoint.
This move to restore Akpoti-Uduaghan to her seat comes at a critical time for the Senate, as it resumes deliberations after a prolonged recess. The Kogi Central lawmaker’s return raises questions about the transparency and democratic processes within the Senate, with many Nigerians eager to see if she will face further resistance or if her presence will influence ongoing legislative debates.
Her legal battle, coupled with her public stand against what she perceives as an abuse of power, has captured national attention, especially considering the current political climate. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return may serve as a symbol of resistance against the perceived authoritarianism within the upper chamber, and many are watching closely to see if the Senate will allow her to resume her duties without further hindrance.
The incident highlights a larger issue within the National Assembly: the tension between leadership and the rank-and-file senators, some of whom have voiced concerns over the centralization of power in the hands of a few. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return could spark further debate on the need for greater checks and balances within the Senate.
