Abuja, 24 July 2025 – Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was briefly detained by immigration officials at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday morning as she attempted to board a flight to the United Kingdom. The incident, which lasted a short while before her release, has sparked concerns over potential restrictions on her movements amid ongoing political tensions.
Immigration officers reportedly informed the senator that she had been placed on a watchlist by the National Assembly leadership, labelling her a “flight risk.” This action stemmed from her recent suspension from the Senate and public disputes with Senate leadership. Despite the intervention, no court order restricting her travel was cited, and she was eventually allowed to proceed after protests from her team.
The detention follows a series of confrontations involving Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. Earlier this week, on Tuesday, security personnel barred her from entering the National Assembly premises upon her return from suspension, leading to a dramatic standoff. Activist Aisha Yesufu intervened, challenging the officers and questioning the legality of the blockade. The senator was suspended for six months in March after being found guilty of flouting Senate rules, including accusations of misconduct related to a seating arrangement dispute.
The suspension came amid allegations that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of misconduct, claims which both parties have denied. Critics have suggested that these events reflect broader issues of political retribution and questions over democratic processes in Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber.
In a statement shared on social media, supporters of the senator expressed outrage, with one post highlighting the incident as a potential violation of human rights and the rule of law. “Nigeria, are we still a democracy?” queried one observer on X, formerly Twitter.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics known for her advocacy on women’s rights and environmental issues, has not yet issued an official comment on the airport incident. The Nigerian Immigration Service has also not responded to requests for clarification.
This event adds to the growing scrutiny of the Senate’s handling of internal disputes, with calls for greater transparency and adherence to legal protocols in dealing with elected officials. As the senator continues her journey to the UK, the implications for her political future remain uncertain.
