Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central has stormed the National Assembly on Tuesday to resume legislative duties following a court judgement declaring her suspension unconstitutional.
However, she was barred from accessing the Senate chambers by security personnel.
The embattled lawmaker, who was accompanied by activist Aisha Yesufu, arrived on foot after her car was denied entry into the complex.
Supporters who had gathered at the entrance of the National Assembly cheered her on as she attempted to make her way into the premises.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had, over the weekend, announced her intention to resume on Tuesday, citing a judgment by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which declared her suspension by the Senate unlawful and excessive.
The Senator described the action taken against her as unconstitutional and maintained that the court’s decision paved the way for her return to plenary.
However, in a statement released on Sunday, Senate spokesperson and chairman of the committee on media and public affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, countered Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claim, asserting that no enforceable court order had been issued for her reinstatement.
He described the ruling referenced by the senator as merely an “advisory opinion,” which does not compel the Senate to recall her.
Despite this, Akpoti-Uduaghan insisted on asserting her right to resume duties, even reportedly requesting the reinstatement of her official security details in preparation for her return to the red chamber.
Earlier on Tuesday, videos circulating on social media showed an increased security presence at the National Assembly complex, including armed personnel stationed at entry points.
The development appeared aimed at preventing any disruption over the senator’s return.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, over alleged misconduct, including accusations related to seating arrangements and a sexual misconduct allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a claim he has denied.
As of the time of this report, the lawmaker had yet to gain access to the Senate chamber, while supporters and activists continued to rally outside the complex in solidarity.