Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has resumed her duties at the National Assembly, marking the end of a tumultuous six-month suspension imposed in March 2025. Her cheerful return to the Senate chamber on Tuesday coincided with the resumption of plenary after a 10-week recess, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio presiding over the session.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, known for her vocal stance on transparency and governance, walked into the chamber accompanied by supporters and activists, including prominent Bring Back Our Girls campaigner Aisha Yesufu, who observed proceedings from the gallery. “What matters most is that I’m back to represent the people of Kogi Central. I owe no apology for standing up for what I believe in,” she declared, underscoring her unwavering commitment.

The suspension stemmed from her protest against Senate President Akpabio’s reassignment of her seat on February 20, 2025, leading to allegations of misconduct. Her office, Suite 2.05 in the Senate Wing, had been sealed since March 6 but was recently reopened by Deputy Director of the National Assembly Sergeant-at-Arms Alabi Adedeji, paving the way for her reinstatement.

Two weeks prior, upon regaining office access, Akpoti-Uduaghan had lambasted Senate President Akpabio as a “dictator,” criticizing upper chamber leadership for intolerance toward dissent. “Senator Akpabio is not the governor of this place, yet he treated me as if I were a servant in his house. It’s unacceptable,” she asserted.

Her return follows a July ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, deeming the suspension “excessive and unconstitutional,” citing deprivation of constituent representation. Lawyer Victor Giwa warned against blocking her resumption, stressing fulfillment of her suspension term and constitutional entitlement to return.

Tuesday’s plenary saw full lawmaker attendance, signaling legislative business resumption post-recess. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s comeback symbolizes resilience amid political challenges, reinforcing her dedication to serving Kogi Central constituents.