Tension as Senate Resumes Plenary, Tightens Security Over Natasha’s Return

There is growing tension at the National Assembly as the Senate resumes plenary today, amid heavy security and uncertainty over the fate of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has completed her six-month suspension.

The upper legislative chamber had on July 24 adjourned plenary for its annual recess, with lawmakers expected to resume on September 23. 

However, a memo signed by the Chief of Staff to the Senate President, Chinedu Akubueze, later postponed the resumption to October 7.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, is expected to make a return to the chamber after her suspension, which took effect on March 6. 

The lawmaker was sanctioned for alleged misconduct and her refusal to comply with the chamber’s sitting arrangement during the February 20 plenary.

The Senate leadership had earlier indicated that if the embattled lawmaker tendered a written apology, her suspension could be reviewed before the expiration of the six months.

But the female lawmaker never apologized.

She instead accused the president of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, of sexual harassment, leading to several litigations while she was on suspension.

Upon the completion of her six months suspension, the National Assembly on September 23 unsealed her office located in Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing.

A few hours after her return to the office, Kenny Okolugbo, Consultant, Communication and Strategy, Office of the Senate President, in an interview on Channels TV said the Senate will on 7th October, 2025, (today) decide if the lawmaker will resume her official duties or not.

Security operatives were yesterday seen mounting surveillance at strategic points within and around the National Assembly complex to forestall any possible protest.

The management of the National Assembly had on Sunday issued a warning against picketing of the complex.

The caution followed reports that members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) were threatening to embark on an industrial action over alleged unresolved welfare and constitutional issues affecting staff.