Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force on Wednesday dispersed supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as they attempted to access the National Assembly Complex.
The protesters, who arrived at the assembly gate as early as 8:00 a.m., coincided their demonstration with the resumption of plenary and the scheduled hearing of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
However, police officers deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, citing security concerns and the need to prevent a potential breakdown of law and order.
Following the intervention, the demonstrators reportedly relocated to the Unity Fountain in Abuja, where they continued their protest.
The demonstration comes amid rising tensions following a February 20, 2025, dispute between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements in the Senate chamber. The disagreement led to her referral to the Senate’s ethics committee.
Last Friday, Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, alleging that she was being targeted for rejecting his advances. The claims have intensified public scrutiny of the Senate leadership.
