Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, returned to the Senate yesterday after serving a six-month suspension.
The lawmaker, according to The Punch, was seen smiling as the upper chamber resumed plenary following a 10-week recess, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio presiding.
Akpoti-Uduaghan entered the chamber accompanied by several supporters, including activist Aisha Yesufu, though others were reportedly denied entry into the gallery.
Her return marks the end of a suspension that had sparked national debate earlier this year.
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Recall that Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 over alleged misconduct during her protest against the reassignment of her seat by Akpabio on February 20.
Following the suspension, her office in Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing was sealed on March 6. It was recently reopened by the Deputy Director of the National Assembly Sergeant-at-Arms, Alabi Adedeji, clearing the way for her reinstatement.
Two weeks before her return, Akpoti-Uduaghan publicly criticized the Senate President, describing him as a “dictator” after regaining access to her office.
Yesterday’s plenary recorded a large turnout of lawmakers, signaling a full return to legislative business.