BREAKING: Tension as Natasha storms National Assembly amid tight security

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Monday arrived at the National Assembly complex, drawing attention as security personnel increased their presence and supporters gathered outside to welcome her.

There was a noticeable security buildup at the complex entrance, where stern-faced officers conducted thorough checks on vehicles and restricted visitors from going beyond the parking area. 

No fewer than five police patrol vans were positioned at key locations near the main gate.

This development follows Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent announcement that she plans to resume her legislative duties, a move that has stirred debate within the Senate. 

The senator from Kogi State was suspended earlier in March, but she insists that a recent court pronouncement supports her return.

During a weekend event in her constituency, she told reporters that she had officially informed the Senate leadership of her intention to return. 

“I will be present because the court has given its position on the matter. They may argue whether it is a formal order or not, but it is still a decision,” she said.

Although her suspension did not prevent her from executing projects in her constituency, she lamented that it had denied her the opportunity to carry out crucial legislative tasks such as initiating bills and raising motions.

Her lawyer, West Idahosa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, supported her claim, stating that the court’s judgment is sufficient for her to resume her seat in the Senate. 

“Attending plenary is a legislative function,” he said in a phone interview. “We are focusing on the ongoing appeal and related legal matters. However, what matters most is that she remains a duly elected senator.”

Meanwhile, her aide, Isah Bala, said he could not immediately confirm her exact plans when contacted on Monday. 

“We just returned from a programme in Okene, so I cannot speak on that right now,” he said, promising to provide an update later. As of the time of filing this report, he had not issued any further statement.

Despite her determination to return, the Senate has maintained its earlier decision to enforce the suspension. 

Senator Yemi Adaramodu, who chairs the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, reaffirmed on Sunday that there is no existing court order compelling the chamber to allow her back.

In a show of support, well-known activist Aisha Yesufu has pledged to accompany Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate on Tuesday. 

Appearing on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Yesufu condemned the Senate’s refusal to acknowledge the court’s position, branding the suspension as unconstitutional and accusing lawmakers of overstepping their bounds.