Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was denied access to the National Assembly on Tuesday despite vowing to resume legislative duties, citing a recent court ruling ordering her recall.
The Kogi Central lawmaker arrived at the National Assembly complex in Abuja around noon in a black vehicle but was stopped by security personnel at the first gate. After several minutes, she stepped out of her car and attempted to enter the complex on foot, accompanied by supporters, including prominent activist Aisha Yesufu.
However, Akpoti-Uduaghan was again stopped at the second gate, where security operatives instructed her to turn back. She and her supporters proceeded past the checkpoint but encountered a locked final gate that blocked their access to the Senate chambers.
Despite multiple attempts, they were ultimately turned away. Speaking afterward, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed disappointment over the denial of entry and said she would consult her legal team on the next steps. She reiterated her intention to resume duties once the Senate reconvenes following its expected two-month recess.
Her attempted return comes after a Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in her favor, directing the Senate to recall her from suspension. The Senate had suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months on March 6 for allegedly breaching its rules, following her public claims of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio—an accusation she has stood by.
While the court sided with the senator, declaring the suspension unlawful, Senate President Akpabio has since appealed the ruling.
On Saturday, Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her plan to resume on Tuesday, referencing the court’s decision. “I have pretty much two months left before the suspension lapses. But I’ve written to the Senate, notifying them of my intention to resume on the 22nd,” she said during an event in her hometown of Ihima, Kogi State. “The court has made its decision. Whether it’s called an order or a judgment, it is still a decision.”
In response, Senate spokesman Yemi Adaramodu insisted that no binding court order currently compels the Senate to reinstate Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“We advise the Distinguished Senator to refrain from any attempt to storm the Senate under a false pretext,” Adaramodu stated. “Such actions are premature and would violate due process and the dignity of the Senate. The Senate, as a law-abiding institution, is committed to the rule of law and the integrity of its proceedings.”
He added that the Senate would review the court’s advisory opinion regarding the senator’s suspension and the amendment of its Standing Orders at the appropriate time, and would formally communicate its decision to Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“Until then, she is respectfully advised to stay away from the Senate chambers and allow due process to take its course,” he concluded.
