Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Tuesday resumed her legislative duties at the National Assembly, following the unsealing of her office by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
The senator, who represents Kogi Central, had been suspended from the Senate since March 6, 2025, after a protest over the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Her office, located in Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing, was unsealed by Alabi Adedeji, Deputy Director of the Sergeant-at-Arms, who was seen in a video removing the red seal placed during the suspension.
“In retrospect, it is amazing how much we have had to pay in the past six months,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said during her return. “But we survived the recall, blackmail, and every attempt to silence me. I give God Almighty the glory and appreciate the people of Kogi Central and Nigerians at large.”
The lawmaker reiterated her position that the suspension was unjust, adding that her return signalled resilience in the face of what she described as institutional intimidation.
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Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for alleged misconduct following a protest on the Senate floor on February 20, 2025. The Senate Ethics and Privileges Committee later recommended a six-month suspension, which included the withdrawal of her salary, security detail, and access to the chamber.
Although her suspension lapsed in September, her return was delayed by legal challenges and a lack of Senate leadership approval. On July 4, the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that the suspension was excessive and unconstitutional. Despite the judgment, the Senate did not immediately reinstate her, arguing that the ruling did not compel reinstatement.
It remains unclear whether Tuesday’s development restores her full legislative privileges, including participation in plenary when the Senate resumes on October 7.
The senator is currently facing a six-count charge filed by the Attorney General of the Federation over alleged defamation of the Senate President and former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello. She has denied the allegations and filed a preliminary objection, describing the case as political persecution.
The court case is expected to continue on October 20.
