Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central yesterday returned to plenary for the first time since completing her six-month suspension from the Senate.
Her office was officially unsealed on September 23 by the Sergeant-at-Arms, Alabi Adedeji, paving the way for her return to legislative duties.
Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the Senate chamber around noon, shortly after Senate President Godswill Akpabio took over proceedings from Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who had opened the session at about 11:15 a.m.
Dressed in white attire with matching headgear, a white veil, and black sunglasses, the senator quietly took her seat in the minority aisle, receiving warm greetings from colleagues, including Seriake Dickson, Ogoshi Onawo, Gbenga Daniel, and Samaila Dahuwa, who exchanged handshakes with her.
Despite her return, the Senate made no official mention of her resumption during plenary.
“I Owe No Apology” — Akpoti-Uduaghan
Speaking to reporters after the session, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan said she had no apology to tender to the Senate, describing her return as a victory for the people of Kogi Central and all Nigerians who stand against intimidation.
Sounding firm and resolute, she said:
“My attendance at plenary today is a testament of resilience by the good people of Kogi Central and Nigerians, especially their courage to resist every unscrupulous intimidation.
“Our victory is the people’s and God’s. I recommit myself to continued service to my constituents and country while trusting the courts to be fair and swift in adjudicating the matters before them.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 after a heated exchange over the reassignment of her seat during a Senate sitting on February 20.
Her return marks a significant moment for the 10th Senate, as she resumes legislative duties amid ongoing discussions about decorum, privilege, and women’s representation in the upper chamber.
According to a 9am News report, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s comeback is seen by many as a symbolic show of strength one that underscores the growing role of women in Nigeria’s political landscape.
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