AfriPulse
The office of embattled Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has finally been unsealed by the National Assembly after months of controversy and political tension. The long-awaited development comes as a relief to her supporters, who had consistently demanded her reinstatement since her suspension earlier in the year.
The office, which had been sealed off since March 2025, was reopened in September following the conclusion of her six-month suspension. The move has sparked mixed reactions across the political landscape, with some hailing it as justice served, while others insist that unresolved legal and political battles may continue to trail the senator.
Office Unsealed Amid Tight Security
The reopening was carried out under the supervision of the Sergeant at Arms of the National Assembly, who was assisted by a combined team of security personnel. Eyewitnesses reported a heavy security presence around the complex to forestall any breakdown of law and order during the unsealing exercise. The development officially restores physical access to the senator’s office, which had remained inaccessible throughout her suspension period.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had been barred from her office since March 2025 after the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on her. The disciplinary action was taken following allegations of misconduct after she staged a protest against the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on February 20, 2025. The protest sparked uproar within the chambers, ultimately leading to her suspension.
Suspension Ends, Legal and Political Hurdles Remain
Although her suspension formally ended in September 2025, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to full legislative duties has been anything but straightforward. Sources within the Senate disclosed that ongoing legal battles and opposition from the leadership had slowed down her reinstatement process. Despite completing her suspension term, the senator faced repeated resistance when she attempted to resume her duties.
Just a week before her office was unsealed, Natasha had officially written to the Senate, informing the leadership of her intention to return to work and resume her responsibilities as a lawmaker. However, her request was initially turned down, further fueling speculations of political persecution and deliberate attempts to silence her voice in the chamber.
The unsealing of her office, however, signals a new phase in the unfolding political drama. While it marks a significant step toward her reinstatement, analysts believe the senator may still have to navigate ongoing court cases and political obstacles before she can fully regain her place in the Senate. For now, her supporters see the move as a victory for resilience and justice, even as the coming weeks may determine how smoothly her return to active legislative work will be.
Source: JustNaija | Read the Full Story…
