A growing political and legal standoff continues in Nigeria’s Senate as Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, one of the only four female senators out of 109, was denied entry into the National Assembly complex in Abuja, despite a federal high court ruling that she says permits her return. The senator, who represents Kogi Central, had been suspended in March for six months after submitting a petition alleging she had been sexually harassed an allegation strongly denied by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The Senate, however, claims the suspension was not related to the harassment petition but was based on what they described as her “unruly and disruptive” behavior during a legislative session. Akpoti-Uduaghan has consistently rejected that explanation, maintaining that the Senate’s action was a direct retaliation for speaking out against powerful figures.
On Tuesday, July 2, her convoy was blocked at the outer gate of the National Assembly. Choosing to proceed on foot, she was again stopped by security personnel at the inner gate, effectively barred from resuming her duties as an elected representative. This action came despite her citing a federal high court judgment ordering the Senate to lift her suspension and allow her to resume her legislative functions.
Senate President Akpabio responded by asserting that the judiciary cannot interfere with internal legislative affairs, citing the principle of separation of powers. He has taken the case to the Court of Appeal to challenge the High Court’s ruling, maintaining that parliamentary procedures are constitutionally protected from judicial intrusion. The appellate court has yet to rule on the matter.
Speaking to journalists shortly after being turned away, Akpoti-Uduaghan criticized the Senate leadership’s actions as unconstitutional and contemptuous of the judiciary. “Akpabio cannot be greater than the Nigerian Constitution,” she said. “The office of the Senate President does not give me legitimacy. My legitimacy comes from the people of Kogi who voted me in.”
The embattled senator stated that she would consult with her legal team on the next course of action, while also reaffirming her right and determination to resume her mandate. According to existing Senate rules, a suspended senator is not allowed into the Assembly premises until the end of the suspension in this case, September.
This unfolding saga has sparked nationwide concern, especially among civil society organizations and women’s rights advocates. Many have called for a transparent and independent investigation into the senator’s harassment claims, emphasizing the importance of protecting whistleblowers and ensuring gender equity in Nigeria’s political institutions.
The situation continues to highlight ongoing struggles within Nigeria’s democracy regarding institutional accountability, gender representation, and the balance between the rule of law and legislative autonomy. As the case progresses, it remains a litmus test for judicial independence and the protection of elected officials from possible political retribution.
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