Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Returns to National Assembly Amid Tightened Security
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan returned to the National Assembly with heightened security measures. Supporters gathered at the entrance to welcome her. The Senate reinforced security protocols around the complex in response to her arrival. Five police patrol vehicles positioned near the entrance ensured tight security. They conducted thorough vehicle searches and restricted visitors to the parking area.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Return: Court Decision Behind Her Move
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who had been suspended in March, announced her return after a favorable court ruling. She informed the Senate over the weekend. The court’s judgment gave her the legal right to resume her duties. Despite Senate objections, she emphasized that the court decision, not an official order, backed her return.
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In a constituency training programme, Akpoti-Uduaghan shared how the suspension hindered her ability to sponsor bills and move motions. However, she clarified that the suspension did not stop her from executing constituency projects. She emphasized her ongoing dedication to serving her constituents.
Senate’s Stance and Legal Backing for Akpoti-Uduaghan
West Idahosa, Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, explained that attending Senate sessions is a key legislative action. He noted that the court decision justified her return. Idahosa added that the matter would proceed through legal channels. He affirmed that Akpoti-Uduaghan remains a duly elected senator, regardless of Senate’s position.
Despite this, the Senate stands firm. They maintain that Akpoti-Uduaghan cannot resume her duties until the suspension period expires. Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, reaffirmed that no legal order compels Akpoti-Uduaghan’s immediate reinstatement.
Support for Akpoti-Uduaghan: Aisha Yesufu Stands in Solidarity
In a powerful act of solidarity, Aisha Yesufu, a prominent social activist, declared her intent to accompany Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate on Tuesday. Yesufu appeared on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily. She condemned the Senate’s actions and called the suspension unconstitutional. She also criticized the Senate for acting with impunity and warned against ignoring judicial decisions. Yesufu’s support highlights the growing tension between the Senate’s stance and public pressure for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reinstatement.
The saga surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension and return underscores the ongoing conflict between the judicial system and the legislative branch, deepening divisions in Nigerian politics.
