By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
There was drama at the entrance of the National Assembly complex in Abuja on Tuesday as security operatives barred suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, from gaining access to the premises.
The senator arrived at the gate accompanied by activist Aisha Yesufu, rights advocate Mama P, activist Randy, and a crowd of supporters, but was denied entry by security officials.
Yesufu, in a bid to intervene, confronted the officers stationed at the gate and challenged the order allegedly issued to block Natasha’s entry.
“National Assembly is meant to be for everyone. Why are you stopping us?
“We are not abiding doesn’t mean we are cowards,” she said.
The standoff quickly escalated as some supporters began chanting “Push!” while attempting to force their way in.
Natasha’s supporters were later seen marching toward the complex.
Speaking to journalists after being denied access to the Senate chambers, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed deep frustration with the Senate leadership, especially given a recent court ruling in her favour.
She said, ”It’s about me, a duly elected senator walking into the chambers to resume my constitutional duties.
“I had duly notified the Senate through two letters that I would be resuming functions today, July 22nd, 2025.”
The senator raised two major concerns: the heavy police presence and the Senate’s alleged defiance of a court order.
“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, attractive Nigerians, who witnessed this.
“The second thing is the fact that the Senate, under its leadership, has decided to become lawbreakers by denying my entrance into the chambers to resume my duties,” she said.
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