Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, was on Tuesday denied entry into the National Assembly complex in Abuja, despite a recent court ruling that ordered her reinstatement following a six-month suspension imposed by the Senate.

The lawmaker arrived at the National Assembly around noon, riding in a black vehicle accompanied by a convoy of supporters, including prominent human rights activist Aisha Yesufu. Her attempt to resume legislative duties was in line with a decision by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which ruled that her suspension was unlawful and directed the Senate to recall her.

However, in a dramatic turn of events, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was prevented from accessing the legislative complex by security operatives stationed at the first gate of the National Assembly. After several minutes of discussion, she stepped out of her vehicle and began walking toward the second entrance, flanked by supporters and members of the media.

Upon reaching the second checkpoint, the Senator was again stopped by security agents and asked to turn back. Refusing to relent, she and her entourage proceeded further, only to find the gate to the complex firmly locked, effectively barring her from entering the Senate chambers.

Despite her persistent efforts and visible frustration, Akpoti-Uduaghan was unable to gain access to the National Assembly. She later departed the scene, expressing deep disappointment at what she described as a deliberate and unlawful obstruction of justice.

Speaking to reporters, she stated, “This is not just a denial of my rights as a duly elected representative, but a direct affront to the Nigerian judiciary. The court gave a clear decision. I will consult with my legal team to determine our next steps, but rest assured, I will resume when the Senate reconvenes after recess.”

Background: Legal Battle and Suspension

The controversy surrounding Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan dates back to March 6, when the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on her for allegedly breaching the chamber’s rules. The suspension followed her public accusations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio claims that sparked significant public debate and polarized political opinions.

In response to the suspension, the Kogi senator filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, arguing that the action taken by the Senate was unconstitutional, arbitrary, and an infringement on her fundamental rights and the democratic mandate of her constituents.

In June, the Federal High Court ruled in her favor, ordering her immediate recall and declaring the suspension unlawful. However, the Senate, through its spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, downplayed the ruling, describing it as an “advisory opinion” rather than a binding directive. The Senate has since filed an appeal against the ruling and maintains that it is under no legal obligation to reinstate Akpoti-Uduaghan until the appeal is determined.

Reacting to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s plan to resume on July 22, Senator Adaramodu had issued a stern warning, advising her not to “storm the Senate under a false pretext,” insisting that her suspension remained in effect until further notice.

“The Senate will, at the appropriate time, consider the advisory opinion of the court on both amending the Standing Orders of the Senate and her recall, and communicate the same thereof to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan,” Adaramodu stated in a press release. “Until then, she is respectfully advised to stay away from the Senate chambers and allow due process to run its full course.”

The Senate maintains that its internal disciplinary mechanisms must be respected and that the judiciary cannot unilaterally impose decisions on the legislative arm, highlighting the importance of separation of powers and due process in governance.

Public Reaction and Implications

The incident has sparked outrage among civil society groups and political observers who argue that the Senate’s actions not only undermine judicial authority but also disenfranchise the people of Kogi Central, who have been without representation for nearly five months.

Aisha Yesufu, who accompanied the senator to the complex, condemned the blockage as “an act of tyranny” and “a deliberate attempt to silence dissent in the National Assembly.” Videos of the standoff quickly circulated on social media, drawing widespread condemnation and calls for accountability.

Legal analysts warn that if the court’s decision is indeed binding, the Senate’s refusal to comply could amount to contempt of court, setting up a potential constitutional crisis over the limits of parliamentary immunity and the enforceability of judicial decisions within the legislative space.

With the National Assembly expected to go on a two-month recess, the political and legal limbo surrounding Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s status is likely to persist. Nonetheless, the senator has vowed to continue pursuing justice and insists she will resume office once the Senate returns.

“I have just a couple of months left before my suspension would have naturally expired. But this isn’t just about me; it’s about the rule of law and democracy,” she said during an earlier empowerment event in her hometown of Ihima, Kogi State.

As tensions between the judiciary and the legislature continue to rise, this case is poised to become a landmark moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution testing the strength of its institutions, the independence of its judiciary, and the accountability of its lawmakers.