Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has officially resumed duties at the National Assembly following the unsealing of her office after six months of suspension.

The senator arrived at the assembly complex on Tuesday, September 23, accompanied by supporters, shortly after the sergeant-at-arms unlocked her office at Suite 2.05 in the Senate wing.

“While we were in court, I read in the news that our office had been opened. I even saw a video of the clerk himself unlocking the door,” Akpoti-Uduaghan told journalists before entering.

She, however, noted that no formal notification of her reinstatement had been issued.
“As at this moment, I have not been officially communicated to. I expect an institution like the National Assembly to follow administrative procedures, with written communication,” she said.

“The last correspondence we received from the clerk stated that we were not allowed to resume, as it was within the purview of the Senate. But we are here today, and I intend to spend a few minutes in the office.”

Her return briefly sparked a scene at the Senate wing entrance, as her supporters attempted to follow her in. She appealed for calm.
“Those of you who want to come, it is your office, your right to be there, just as it is your right to be here in the people’s parliament. But I ask that you remain quiet and calm,” she said.

“Your voices have been heard, your actions have been loud. Nigerians are proud of you, I am proud of you, and our ancestors are proud of you. Now, I will simply walk in.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan had been suspended over alleged breaches of Senate standing rules. On July 4, the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled the suspension “excessive and unconstitutional” and urged her reinstatement.

Despite the ruling, the National Assembly management maintained she could not return without a fresh Senate resolution or a definitive court order.

Her resumption on Tuesday marked the first time she accessed her office since the suspension took effect.