The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday resumed plenary after a 10-week recess, marking a full return to legislative business at the National Assembly complex in Abuja.
The session, presided over by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, proceeded smoothly despite the absence of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
One of the most notable highlights of the day was the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, who rejoined the chamber after serving a six-month suspension that sparked nationwide debate over legislative powers and gendered politics in Nigeria.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s ordeal began on February 20, 2025, when a dispute erupted on the Senate floor over the reassignment of her official seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The lawmaker protested the move, which she described as an act of humiliation and intimidation.
Two weeks later, on March 6, 2025, the Senate suspended her for six months, citing gross misconduct and unparliamentary behaviour. Her office, located in Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing, was immediately sealed by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
In response, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, through her lawyer Barrister Victor Giwa, challenged the suspension in court. Citing previous judicial precedents, Giwa argued that the Senate lacked the constitutional authority to suspend an elected member for more than 14 days.
“The Senate cannot be turned into an institution that legalises illegality,” Giwa said, warning that blocking her from returning after serving her suspension would “plunge the legislature into chaos.”
Throughout the six-month period, the senator remained outspoken. She accused Senate President Akpabio of dictatorial leadership and alleged instances of sexual harassment and political victimisation, claims Akpabio’s media office vehemently denied.
Her refusal to apologise, despite pressure from Senate leadership, became a symbol of defiance.
“No one is more Nigerian than us. Senator Akpabio is not more of a senator than I am. I have no apology to tender for defending my rights,” she had said.
After completing her suspension, the National Assembly management unsealed her office on September 23, 2025, signalling her reinstatement. The action was carried out by Deputy Director of the Sergeant-at-Arms, Alabi Adedeji, who oversaw the reopening of her suite.
Following the unsealing, she returned to her office and addressed reporters, describing her comeback as a victory for justice and resilience.
“I have endured six months of blackmail, recall threats, and humiliation, but the law has prevailed. Sometimes, institutions must be tested to strengthen democracy,” she said.
However, tensions remained high ahead of the Senate’s reconvening. Aides to the Senate President hinted that the leadership might still deliberate on whether she would resume full plenary duties.
The upper chamber resumed plenary on October 7, 2025, after postponing its initial resumption from September 23, extending its annual recess by two weeks. The session witnessed a strong turnout of lawmakers and heightened security around the National Assembly complex.
Security was beefed up following intelligence reports of possible protests by civil groups and members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), who had threatened industrial action over unresolved welfare issues.
Inside the chamber, proceedings went on without incident. Notably, some senators appeared in Palestinian colours, symbolising solidarity with the people of Palestine amid ongoing global protests.
The Senate is now expected to turn its attention to pending national matters that were suspended during the recess, including economic reforms, security issues, and constitutional review bills.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reinstatement has generated mixed reactions. A pending court decision on the legality of her suspension is expected to further clarify constitutional boundaries.
