Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has returned to legislative work after her Senate office was reopened, rejecting any attached conditions, including a reported demand for a public apology to the Senate leadership.
On her first day back at the National Assembly, Akpoti-Uduaghan told journalists that her suspension was the result of “illegality and fraud,” warning that Nigeria’s democracy was at risk from what she described as “a culture of impunity and dictatorship” in the legislature.
“I have resumed work, but I must state clearly that I have not been officially informed regarding the reopening of my office,” she said.
“The last correspondence I received from the Clerk of the National Assembly stated that I would not be allowed access due to a pending matter at the Court of Appeal. It is important to clarify the terms under which this office has now been reopened.”
Media reports indicated that her reinstatement was tied to certain conditions, including an apology upon resumption. She dismissed such demands completely.
“Apologise for what, exactly? You cannot apologise for an injustice,” she said, claiming her suspension was based on a fraudulent document from the Senate President’s office.
Akpoti-Uduaghan openly criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of treating her “like a domestic servant” instead of as an elected senator.
“Senator Akpabio is not more of a Nigerian than I am. He is not the governor of this place. The way he treated me is unfortunate and unacceptable. After so many years of democracy, the National Assembly should not be run like a private estate,” she declared.
She vowed to continue pushing for the interests of her constituents and protecting democratic ideals as the 2027 general elections approach.
“If apology is the price for reopening my office, then we have a long dance ahead. But let it be clear: no one is above the law — not even the Senate President,” she said.
She recounted the difficulties she faced during her suspension, including recall attempts, blocked roads in Kogi, smear campaigns, and physical obstructions that once made her travel by helicopter.
Nevertheless, she said she stayed active in pursuing jobs, infrastructure, and development for Kogi Central.
Closing on an emotional note, the senator thanked her constituents, civil society groups, lawyers, political leaders, and the media for their support.
She also expressed appreciation to her husband and family for standing by her throughout the period.
“I believe it was this collective pressure that forced the Senate leadership to soften its stance,” she said.
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