By Olugbenga Salami
Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Tuesday resumed legislative duties after six months suspension and the unsealing of her office by the National Assembly.
This was even as the lawmaker insisted that her suspension for alleged violation of the Senate standing rules, was illegal and fraud, vowing that she would not offer public apology to the leadership of the Red Chamber as being demanded.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who spoke to journalists after settling down in her office described her suspension as a product of “illegality and fraud” and warned that Nigeria’s democracy was being threatened by what she called “a culture of impunity and dictatorship” in the legislature.
She said: “I have resumed work, but I must state clearly that I have not been officially informed regarding the reopening of my office.”
The lawmaker vowed to continue advocating for her constituents and defending democratic values ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“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 detailed the challenges she faced during her suspension, including attempts to recall her, road blockades in Kogi, smear campaigns, and physical obstructions that at one point forced her to travel by helicopter, saying despite these hurdles, she remained active in seeking jobs, infrastructure, and development for Kogi Central.
The lawmaker expressed appreciation to her family, especially her husband, constituents, civil society organisations, legal professionals, political leaders, and the media for their support throughout the ordeal.
She said: “I believe it was this collective pressure that forced the Senate leadership to soften its stance.”
