- Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a suspended lawmaker, has criticized Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
- She accuses Akpabio of ignoring a court ruling and acting above the Nigerian Constitution.
- Akpoti-Uduaghan refuses to apologize to Akpabio.
Suspended lawmaker Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has fiercely criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of disregarding a court ruling and placing himself above the Nigerian Constitution. The senator, representing Kogi Central, stated emphatically that she would not apologise to Akpabio and would rather serve out her suspension than plead for reinstatement.
On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Natasha returned to the National Assembly following a Federal High Court decision that overturned her suspension. However, her attempt to resume her duties was met with resistance as security operatives barred her from entering the chamber.
Visibly frustrated, she declared at the scene:
“Akpabio is not above the Constitution. My mandate comes from the people of Kogi, not from the Senate President. His appeal does not override the judgment delivered by Justice Binta Nyako.”
She condemned the Senate’s defiance as a blatant violation of judicial authority, stating that the legislative body under Akpabio’s leadership is operating in contempt of court.
The court had previously described her suspension as “excessive” and advised the Senate to revisit the matter. However, it also imposed a ₦5 million fine on her for contempt and directed her to issue a public apology through two national newspapers and on Facebook—requirements she has not yet met.
In reaction, Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu maintained that no enforceable court directive mandates her immediate return.
“There is no valid court order instructing the Senate to recall Senator Natasha before the end of her suspension,” he asserted earlier.
Despite the Senate’s stance, Natasha arrived at the National Assembly with a group of supporters and civil society activists, including well-known advocate Aisha Yesufu. The group condemned the security lockdown and the refusal to grant her access.
Undeterred, Natasha marched from the initial checkpoint to the main entrance, where she met heightened security presence, barricades, and police vehicles.
Standing her ground, she insisted:
“There is absolutely no justification for keeping these gates shut. I will not apologise for an offence I didn’t commit.”
She also referred to previous friction with Akpabio, including past allegations of sexual harassment she had levelled against him.
She further revealed plans to escalate the matter legally, stating:
“As a law-abiding citizen, I will return to court with my legal team to seek further clarification.”
As of the time of reporting, the Senate had yet to issue an official response regarding the incident.
Meanwhile, Natasha reaffirmed her determination to reclaim her seat, vowing not to give in to intimidation or pressure from any source.
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