By Amaka Okwudili
Drama unfolded at the National Assembly in Abuja Tuesday, when armed security personnel blocked suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from entering the premises. Senator Natasha, representing Kogi Central, had vowed to resume her legislative duties following a court ruling asking the Senate to recall her.
Senator Natasha was accompanied by prominent activists like Aisha Yesufu and rights advocates when security operatives denied her entry into the National Assembly complex. Aisha Yesufu confronted security officers at the gate, questioning the order to block Senator Natasha’s entry. Some of Senator Natasha’s supporters began chanting and attempted to breach the security barrier.
Senator Natasha expressed frustration over the Senate leadership’s alleged defiance of a court order. She cited Section 318 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, emphasizing that court decisions are binding on authorities.
Recall that Senator Akpoti was suspended following allegations of misconduct and breach of Senate rules. Senator Natasha had challenged her suspension in court, arguing that the process was flawed and unconstitutional. A Federal High Court subsequently ruled in her favor, directing the Senate to recall her. However, the Senate leadership has reportedly resisted complying with the court order, leading to the tense confrontation at the National Assembly gates yesterday.
