Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan came at the National Assembly in Abuja on July 22, 2025, but was sent away. On the basis of contested instructions, security guards denied her entry. She said that the Senate was disregarding a court decision that required her reinstatement, accompanied by activists such as Aisha Yesufu.
What happened at the gate of the Assembly
Sen. Akpoti-Uduaghan made an appearance at the National Assembly gate early on Tuesday, accompanied by supporters, Mama P, Randy, and activist Aisha Yesufu. Tension was raised when security personnel prevented her from entering.
Yesufu confronted the officers, saying,
"Everyone should be able to attend the National Assembly. What's stopping us? We are not cowards because we are not abiding.
After trying to break through the barrier with the shout "Push!" supporters marched in the direction of the facility.
Claims of the court order and the senator's response
Natasha, who was barred from the Senate chambers, voiced her frustration:
"It's about me, a senator who was duly elected, entering the chambers to carry out my constitutional duties."
She claimed to have sent the Senate two letters indicating her intention to return on July 22, 2025.
Legal and constitutional arguments
In response to the Senate's opposition to a court order, Akpoti-Uduaghan argued:
"It was shocking how many armed police officers we saw charging at an unarmed female senator."
She maintained that court rulings are binding on all authorities under Sections 318 and 287(3) of the 1999 Constitution.
She also made it clear that Senator Akpabio, not the Senate, was the one who appealed the decision, stating that neither the Senate nor the ethics committee had done so.
Senator Natasha, unfazed, promised to take legal action after the incident. As the scandal develops, concerns about women's access to political spaces, legislative compliance, and judicial authority are raised. Will the Senate honor the court's order and permit her to return to work?
Let us know what you think: Should the Senate follow the court's order right away, or are there legitimate legislative concerns?
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