Amanze Chinonye
Senator Natasha of Kogi Central on Tuesday resumed work at the National Assembly after her sealed office was reopened, six months after her suspension by the Senate.
The lawmaker arrived at the complex around 12:30 p.m. and proceeded to Suite 2.05 in the Senate Wing, where staff of the Sergeant-at-Arms had earlier in the day removed the official seal that had kept the office locked since March 6.
Supporters who accompanied her were prevented from entering the main gate and were later dispersed with tear gas by security operatives, but Akpoti-Uduaghan and a few aides were allowed inside.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHer return follows a Federal High Court judgment declaring her six-month suspension excessive and unconstitutional. The Senate had suspended her in March over alleged gross misconduct and violation of its rules, insisting at the time that she could not return until her legal challenge against Senate President Godswill Akpabio was resolved.
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Speaking to journalists after settling into her office, Akpoti-Uduaghan said she would not apologise for what she described as an illegal suspension and accused the Senate leadership of fabricating documents to justify its action.
While she has regained access to her office and can once again carry out constituency work, it is not yet clear whether she will immediately enjoy full legislative privileges such as participation in plenary sessions or committee activities.
The Senate is scheduled to formally reconvene on October 7, when the extent of her reinstatement will become evident.
Her resumption restores a physical presence for Kogi Central at the National Assembly and underscores the tension between legislative authority and judicial oversight in Nigeria’s democracy.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
