Natasha Returns as Senate Resumes After 10-Week Recess

The Nigerian Senate reconvened on Tuesday after a 10-week recess, with Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin presiding over the plenary in the absence of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The session saw a strong turnout of lawmakers, marking a full return to legislative business.

Among those present was Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, who made her first appearance on the Senate floor in six months following the completion of her suspension. Her return drew attention across the chamber, symbolising a significant comeback after months of political and legal contention.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March for allegedly breaching the Senate’s standing rules, a move that generated widespread criticism from civil society groups and opposition members. She later challenged her suspension in court, arguing that it was unlawful. Despite the ongoing legal process, the senator’s six-month suspension expired in September, allowing her to officially return to her legislative duties.

On September 23, her office, which had been sealed for the duration of her suspension, was reopened by Senate officials. “For me, I am glad to be here,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said upon resuming. “Even though we were illegally suspended, I never stopped serving my constituents to the best of my ability.”

During Tuesday’s plenary, some senators arrived wearing Palestinian colours and attire in a show of solidarity with the people of Palestine, advocating for their freedom.

The Senate had initially adjourned for its annual recess on July 24, advising committees to continue with pending assignments and oversight functions. Lawmakers were originally expected to resume on September 23, but the return was postponed by two weeks to October 7.

The recess is a routine part of the National Assembly’s calendar, providing legislators with the opportunity to balance their national duties with constituency engagements and personal matters. With the resumption now in full swing, attention shifts back to legislative business and pending national issues awaiting debate.