Abuja, 8 July 2025 – The Nigeria National Assembly has heightened security measures in anticipation of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to the Senate today, following a court order mandating her immediate reinstatement. The Federal High Court in Abuja ruled last Friday that the six-month suspension imposed on the senator was “excessive, unconstitutional, and an infringement on the rights of her constituents,” paving the way for her resumption of legislative duties.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, was suspended in March 2025 after alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a claim he has denied. The suspension, which included the withdrawal of her security detail, salaries, and allowances, as well as a ban from the National Assembly complex, sparked widespread controversy and debate about gender equality and freedom of expression in Nigeria’s Senate.
In a trending video, the senator addressed her supporters, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support and confirming her return to the Senate on Tuesday, 8 July. “I thank you for your support. I am glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God,” she said. However, the Senate’s legal counsel has maintained that Akpoti-Uduaghan must comply with certain conditions, including issuing an apology for a satirical Facebook post deemed to have violated a court order, before her reinstatement can be finalised. The court also fined her N5 million for contempt over the post.
The heightened security at the National Assembly comes amid concerns over potential tensions, with posts on X indicating a charged atmosphere surrounding the senator’s return. One post described the situation as a “controversial return,” reflecting the polarised sentiments among Nigerians. Civil society groups and women’s rights activists have rallied behind Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling her suspension a setback for gender emancipation in a Senate with only four female members out of 109.
The court’s ruling aligns with previous judicial precedents, such as the 2018 nullification of Senator Ovie Omo-Agege’s suspension and the 2017 case involving Senator Ali Ndume, both of which were deemed unlawful. These cases underscore the judiciary’s stance that while the Senate has the constitutional right to discipline its members, such actions must comply with legal provisions.
As Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan prepares to resume her duties, all eyes are on the National Assembly to see how her return will shape the dynamics of the Senate and the ongoing discourse on parliamentary conduct and gender equality in Nigeria.
