By John Umeh
Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked a fresh round of political tension in the National Assembly after boldly declaring her intention to return to the Senate floor on Tuesday, defying the suspension order handed down by the Red Chamber weeks ago.
The senator, who represents Kogi Central under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was suspended during a heated Senate session over alleged “unparliamentary conduct” and accusations deemed damaging to the integrity of the Senate leadership. While the details of the suspension remain contentious, Senator Natasha has remained resolute, claiming the action taken against her lacked constitutional backing and violated her rights as an elected representative of the people.
Speaking during a press briefing on Friday, Natasha insisted that the suspension was politically motivated and had no legal grounding. “I am coming back to the Senate on Tuesday. No amount of intimidation or abuse of process can override the will of my constituents,” she declared. “My mandate was given by the people, and only the people can take it away.”
Her bold declaration has stirred mixed reactions across political lines. Some lawmakers have called her defiance a breach of protocol that could lead to further disciplinary action, while her supporters see it as a courageous stand against political oppression and an abuse of legislative power.
Legal experts are also divided. While some argue that legislative bodies have the power to suspend members for misconduct, others contend that indefinite or politically motivated suspensions may be challenged in court, especially if due process is not followed.
As Tuesday approaches, all eyes are on the National Assembly to see whether Senator Natasha will follow through on her promise — and how the Senate leadership will respond if she attempts to resume her seat.
This looming confrontation not only tests the boundaries of parliamentary procedure but also raises broader questions about transparency, internal democracy, and accountability within Nigeria’s legislative system.
For Natasha, this is more than a political battle — it’s a statement of resistance, and for many of her constituents, it’s a fight for representation.
