Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan gains entry into office after Six-Month suspension

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, on Tuesday, formally resumed duties at the National Assembly following the unsealing of her office, which had been locked for six months.

She arrived at the assembly complex on September 23, accompanied by a crowd of supporters, just hours after the Sergeant-at-Arms reopened her office at Suite 2.05 in the Senate Wing.

“While we were in court, I read in the news that our office had been opened. I even saw a video of the clerk himself unlocking the door,” she told journalists before entering her office.

The senator, however, noted that she had not received any official communication 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. “The last correspondence we received from the clerk stated that we were not allowed to resume, as it was within the purview of the Senate. But we are here today, and I intend to spend a few minutes in the office.”

Her return sparked mild drama at the Senate Wing entrance as supporters attempted to follow her inside. She calmed them down, saying, “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. 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 had been suspended in March over alleged violations of Senate standing rules. On July 4, however, the Federal High Court in Abuja described the suspension as “excessive and unconstitutional,” urging the Senate to consider her reinstatement.

Despite the ruling, the National Assembly management insisted she could not return without either a fresh Senate resolution or a clear court directive. Tuesday’s development marked the first time she accessed her office since the suspension was imposed.