The Nigerian Senate resumed plenary today following a 10-week legislative recess, and the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the chamber was one of the most anticipated developments of the session.
Plenary reconvened under the stewardship of Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, in the absence of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Senators across party lines were present, signaling a strong and near-full turnout. In a show of solidarity with global issues, some senators attended wearing Palestinian colours and attire to express support for a free Palestine.
In his opening remarks, Senate President Akpabio (albeit not physically present) was referenced, as he urged lawmakers to recommit themselves to accountability, discipline, and purposeful governance. He reiterated that Nigerians expect results, not excuses, and emphasized that the Senate must remain responsive to citizens.
The spotlight of the day was on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, who formally resumed her seat in the Senate after a six-month suspension. Her suspension, imposed in March 2025, was rooted in allegations of misconduct, regarded by her supporters as politically motivated.
Prior to today’s plenary, Senator Akpoti’s office had been sealed, preventing her normal access to legislative work and facilities. The office was unsealed on September 23 by the Deputy Director of the National Assembly Sergeant-at-Arms, Alabi Adedeji, paving the way for her return.
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Stepping back into the floor of the Senate chamber, Akpoti described her reinstatement as a restoration of her constitutional mandate, emphasizing that she never hesitated in fulfilling her duties to her constituents, even while barred from formal participation.
The National Assembly had adjourned for its annual legislative recess on July 24, 2025. Although the recess was initially scheduled for two months, the return to plenary was postponed. While members were expected back on September 23, the session was pushed ahead by two weeks, culminating in today’s resumption.
During the recess, ad hoc and standing committees were mandated to continue oversight functions and finalize pending reports. The recess is a customary feature of the National Assembly schedule, intended to balance legislative work with constituency engagement and personal obligations.
Senator Akpoti’s suspension followed a Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges report, accusing her of breaching the Senate’s 2023 Standing Orders.
The action drew sharp criticism from civil society organisations, opposition figures, and some public commentators, who branded it unfair and undermining of democratic representation.
Her suspension included restrictions on access to her office, denial of salary, and withdrawal of standard security protections. In July 2025, a court ordered a review of the suspension, deeming it excessive.
