There was a dramatic scene at the entrance of the National Assembly complex in Abuja on Tuesday as security operatives barred the suspended senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, from accessing the premises.
Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the gate accompanied by activist Aisha Yesufu, rights advocate Mama P, activist Randy, and a crowd of supporters. However, security personnel stationed at the entrance refused to grant them entry.
Aisha Yesufu confronted the officers in an attempt to intervene, questioning the directive reportedly issued to prevent the senator’s access.
“National Assembly is meant to be for everyone. Why are you stopping us? We are not abiding doesn’t mean we are cowards,” Yesufu said.
Tensions escalated as some supporters began chanting “Push!” while attempting to force their way through the security blockade. The group was later seen marching toward the complex in protest.
Addressing journalists after being denied entry, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed frustration over the Senate’s refusal to allow her resume legislative duties, despite a recent court ruling in her favour.
“It’s about me, a duly elected senator walking into the chambers to resume my constitutional duties,” she said. “I had duly notified the Senate through two letters that I would be resuming functions today, July 22nd, 2025.”
She raised concerns about the Senate’s alleged disregard for the court ruling and the overwhelming police presence at the gate.
“The number of armed policemen we met outside, all well-kitted with guns, charging at an unarmed female senator, was shocking. We have people here—credible Nigerians—who witnessed this,” she stated.
Akpoti-Uduaghan also criticised attempts to misrepresent the court’s ruling in the media.
“There’s been some conversations in the media by their own team trying to twist a narrative that the judge did not order my reinstatement, and I’d like to clarify that,” she said.
