By Chidimma Okwara
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has re-entered the National Assembly complex and had her office unsealed after serving a six-month suspension. She has also publicly stated that she will not apologize to the Senate.
On Tuesday, September 23, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) was granted full access to the National Assembly complex, and her office was unsealed by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
This development came after her six-month suspension, which began in March, had officially expired. Her return was met with jubilation from supporters who accompanied her to the complex.
SEE ALSO: Widows receive Houses from Ebonyi Gov’t.
During her return, Akpoti-Uduaghan addressed journalists, stating that she has no intention of apologizing to the Senate. She expressed that “you can’t apologise for an injustice” and that she has survived what she considers to be an illegal suspension.
The lawmaker mentioned that she was aware of reports that a motion might be tabled upon the Senate’s resumption on October 7 to compel her to apologize, but she maintained that she has “no words” for such an apology.
SEE ALSO: President Tinubu Vows to Uphold Buhari’s Legacy of Honesty and Patriotism
The conflict began in March 2025 when the Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan over allegations of misconduct and a breach of the Senate’s standing rules following a dispute over her seating arrangement. The suspension also led to the withdrawal of her security aides, a suspension of her salary and allowances, and a ban from the National Assembly.
While the Senate offered an early recall if she apologized, she instead challenged the decision in court.
A Federal High Court judge ruled that the suspension was excessive and denied her constituents representation, though it did not order her immediate reinstatement. The matter remains pending at the Court of Appeal.
