Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan made her way to the National Assembly on Monday amid heightened security presence, as supporters gathered outside the complex in anticipation of her return.
Security at the Assembly complex was visibly reinforced, with heavily armed personnel conducting thorough checks on vehicles and limiting visitor access to the external car park.
At least five police patrol vehicles were stationed at strategic points around the premises.
The increased security follows Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent declaration that she would resume legislative duties, a move that has stirred controversy within the Senate.
The Kogi lawmaker, who was suspended in March, insists that a recent court decision supports her return to the chamber.
Over the weekend, during a constituency empowerment event, Akpoti-Uduaghan disclosed that she had formally written to the Senate leadership, informing them of her intention to resume work.
Speaking to journalists, she said, “I will be there, because the court did make a decision on that. Now, they argue that it’s an order or not, but it is a decision.”
While she noted that her suspension had not stopped her from implementing constituency projects, she lamented that it had hindered her ability to perform critical legislative functions, including sponsoring bills and raising motions.
Her legal counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria West Idahosa, also maintained that the court’s ruling justifies her return.
“Attendance is a legislative function,” he said in a phone interview. “As far as we’re concerned, we are focused on the appeal and other court issues. But most importantly, she remains a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Asked about her precise plan, her aide, Isah Bala, remained non-committal.
“It’s not something I can confirm immediately because we just returned from a programme in Okene,” he said. As of press time, he had not responded to further inquiries.
Despite her position and the court ruling cited by her legal team, the Senate remains firm.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, reiterated on Sunday that the Upper Chamber stands by its earlier decision to suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan until the end of the suspension period.
He added that no court order has been received compelling the Senate to reverse its decision.
Meanwhile, prominent activist Aisha Yesufu has declared her intention to accompany the senator into the chamber on Tuesday in a show of solidarity.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, Yesufu criticized the Senate’s stance and accused it of flouting judicial authority.
She described Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension as unconstitutional and a display of legislative impunity.