Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has arrived at the National Assembly, where her supporters have gathered at the entrance to welcome her.
An unusual security presence was observed at the Assembly gate, with stern operatives conducting vehicle searches and restricting visitor access to the car park. At least five police patrol vehicles were stationed strategically at the entrance.
This increased security follows Akpoti-Uduaghan’s announcement of her intention to resume legislative duties, despite earlier warnings from the Senate.
The senator, suspended since March, revealed over the weekend that she has formally notified Senate leadership of her plan to return, citing a recent court ruling supporting her case.
Speaking during a constituency training program, she said, “I will be there, because the court did make a decision on that. It’s not just an order; it’s a decision.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that while her suspension did not hinder her from carrying out constituency projects, it prevented her from performing key legislative roles such as sponsoring bills and moving motions.
Supporting her position, her lawyer, Senior Advocate of Nigeria West Idahosa, stated that the court judgment validates her return. “Attendance is a legislative action.
We are focused on the appeal and other legal issues. The decision to return will depend on the constituents’ support,” he said in a phone interview.
However, her aide, Isah Bala, expressed uncertainty about her exact plans when contacted Monday. “I can’t confirm immediately as we just returned from a program in Okene. I will provide clarification later,” he said but has not responded to further inquiries.
Meanwhile, the Senate has reaffirmed its stance to maintain the suspension until its expiration. Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, reiterated that there is no legal order compelling Akpoti-Uduaghan’s immediate return.
In a show of support, social activist Aisha Yesufu vowed to accompany the senator to the Senate on Tuesday. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Yesufu condemned the Senate’s position as unconstitutional and accused it of defying judicial rulings.