Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan made a return to the Nigerian Senate on Tuesday, marking the end of her six-month suspension that kept her away from plenary sessions and her office.
Her return was one of the most notable moments as the Senate reconvened from its 10-week annual recess, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio presiding over the first plenary of the new session.
The sitting opened with a call by Senator Akpabio for renewed commitment to discipline, accountability, and effective governance. In his welcome address, he urged lawmakers to prioritise national interest and deliver tangible results.
“To the citizens of Nigeria, we hear you. You asked us not for excuses, but for results. We will remain accountable and responsive,” Akpabio declared, setting the tone for the legislative session ahead.
The day’s plenary also witnessed a symbolic moment of solidarity with the Palestinian people, as several senators arrived at the chamber dressed in Palestinian colours and attire, advocating for a free Palestine.
The gesture reflected a rare intersection of domestic and international concerns within Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber.
Tuesday’s session marked the Senate’s official return after a break that began on July 24, following the adjournment of both chambers of the National Assembly for their annual recess.
Lawmakers had initially planned to resume on September 23, but the return date was postponed by two weeks to allow committees to complete pending oversight duties and finalise reports.
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During the recess, standing and ad hoc committees were directed to continue legislative work in their respective sectors.
The extended break also provided senators time to engage with their constituencies and attend to personal commitments before the resumption of full legislative activities.
For Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the resumption was particularly significant. She had been suspended in March 2025 for allegedly violating the Senate’s standing rules, a decision that triggered strong reactions from opposition figures, civil society organisations, and gender advocates, many of whom described the move as unjust and politically motivated.
The Kogi Central senator had challenged her suspension in court, arguing that it infringed upon her mandate and the rights of her constituents.
Despite being locked out of her office for months, she remained vocal on national issues, continuing to engage her supporters and maintaining her advocacy for transparency and women’s inclusion in governance.
On September 23, her sealed office — located in Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing — was reopened by the Sergeant-at-Arms, marking a precursor to her eventual reinstatement.
Speaking after her return, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed relief and resolve. “Even though we had been illegally suspended, no day have I hesitated in effectively carrying out my duties as the senator of Kogi Central,” she said.
News Express
