There was high drama at Nigeria’s National Assembly on Tuesday as security officials physically blocked Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from entering the legislative complex, despite a court ruling that should have allowed her to resume her duties. The Kogi Central lawmaker, accompanied by prominent activist Aisha Yesufu and dozens of supporters, was met with a heavy police presence that refused her entry – an action she called “a clear violation” of a recent Federal High Court judgment in her favor.
The confrontation turned chaotic as Yesufu engaged in heated arguments with security personnel while supporters chanted and attempted to push forward. Senator Natasha revealed that Senate President Godswill Akpabio had personally – not institutionally – appealed the court ruling, raising serious constitutional questions about the separation of powers. She displayed court documents showing Akpabio had actually sued the National Assembly itself in his appeal.
Key Details:
• Court had ordered Natasha’s reinstatement after her controversial suspension
• Over 50 armed policemen deployed to block one unarmed senator
• Senate President filed appeal as individual, not on behalf of the Senate
• Incident occurred despite Natasha’s formal notification of her planned return
The standoff represents a major test for Nigeria’s democracy, pitting the judiciary’s authority against legislative power while raising concerns about political victimization. Civil society groups have condemned the action as unconstitutional, with many questioning why such extreme security measures were used against a duly elected official.
Why This Matters
• Tests judiciary’s authority over legislative branch
• Exposes deepening rift in Senate leadership
• Could set dangerous precedent for lawmakers’ immunity
Key Developments
✔ Court Order Defied: Natasha presented Justice Binta Nyako’s ruling ordering her reinstatement
✔ Security Excess: Senator decried “over 50 armed policemen” blocking an unarmed official
✔ Appeal Exposed: Revealed Akpabio filed appeal as individual, not Senate
✔ Media War: Accused Akpabio’s camp of twisting court’s “recommendation” wording
What Next?
→ Legal Escalation: Natasha vows fresh court action for enforcement
→ Senate Split: More lawmakers may break ranks over constitutional breach
→ Public Backlash: #LetNatashaIn trends amid civil society outrage
