Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan resumes duties after National Assembly unseals her office, rejecting calls to apologise amid Senate leadership dispute

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan resumes her legislative duties at the National Assembly after regaining access to her sealed office in the Senate Wing on Tuesday, ending a tense stand-off that began with her suspension in March 2025.

Also read: Senate blocks Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return over court case

The Senator representing Kogi Central returned to Suite 2.05 following the unsealing by Alabi Adedeji, Deputy Director of the National Assembly Sergeant-at-Arms.

Despite months of suspension and legal challenges, Akpoti-Uduaghan remained resolute, stating she had “no apology to tender.”

Reflecting on her ordeal, the senator highlighted the trials she faced:

“It is amazing what we had to pass through, from unjust suspension to recall, blackmail, and social media attacks. I give God Almighty the glory and thank the people of Kogi Central and Nigerians at large.”

She also criticised the National Assembly leadership, particularly Senate President Godswill Akpabio, describing the administration as “dictatorial” and “unacceptable.” Akpoti-Uduaghan insisted that no one should be treated as less than equal within the Senate.

Her office was locked on 6 March after she was suspended for six months over alleged misconduct related to protests against her seat’s reassignment by the Senate President.

Although the suspension expired in September, she was initially blocked from returning.

The Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in July that her suspension was “excessive and unconstitutional,” clearing the way for her return.

However, the National Assembly initially refused her resumption request.

Also read: Senate blocks Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return over court case

While her office is now accessible, it remains uncertain if Akpoti-Uduaghan will regain full senatorial privileges or be allowed to participate fully when plenary resumes on 7 October.