Amanze Chinonye
The National Assembly on Tuesday unsealed the office of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, signalling a possible shift in the upper chamber’s hard stance against the Kogi Central lawmaker.
A Deputy Director in the Sergeant-at-Arms department, Alabi Adedeji, removed the official seal from Office 205, which had remained locked since March 6 when the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on Akpoti-Uduaghan for alleged gross misconduct and violation of standing rules.
The decision raises new questions about the Senate’s next steps. It is still unclear on whose directive the seal was lifted or whether the senator will be allowed to return to plenary when the chamber resumes on October 7. Senate leaders had previously insisted she could not resume duties until her court case against Senate President Godswill Akpabio is concluded.
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Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension widely criticised as politically motivated followed disputes over seating arrangements and her public accusation of sexual harassment against the Senate President, which he has denied.
In July, a Federal High Court ruled the suspension excessive and unconstitutional, but the Senate leadership maintained the status quo pending an appeal.
The unsealing of her office, while symbolic, highlights the growing tension between judicial authority and legislative autonomy. If the Senate allows her to resume work despite the unresolved legal appeal, it could signal respect for the court’s ruling and a victory for democratic accountability.
If it does not, the chamber risks further accusations of contempt for the rule of law and disenfranchisement of Kogi Central voters, who have lacked full representation for months.
Women’s rights advocates and the Nigerian Bar Association warn that continued obstruction undermines Nigeria’s democratic image and emboldens political retaliation against whistle-blowers.
With the physical seal now removed but formal clearance still in question, political observers say the next Senate sitting will be a key test of whether legal rulings and public pressure can force full reinstatement or whether the leadership will continue to hold the line.
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.
