NLC Threatens Action if Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Is Blocked from Resuming

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to the National Assembly, threatening to mobilise its members if Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central is not allowed to resume her duties.

NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the continued denial of the senator’s resumption, calling it a direct threat to Nigeria’s democracy. He accused the Senate leadership of ignoring a court ruling that voided her suspension and continuing to bar her from performing her constitutional duties. Ajaero described the Senate’s actions as a “brazen, premeditated assault on democracy” and warned that it could signal a “dangerous slide towards fascism masquerading as governance.”

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension began on March 6, 2025, and was initially set for six months. During this period, her salary, allowances, and security aides were withdrawn following her refusal to comply with the chamber’s sitting arrangement during a plenary session. Despite a court ruling in July 2025 that voided the suspension, the National Assembly has yet to allow her to resume, citing ongoing judicial processes.

Her legal team has warned that they may take action against the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamorudeen Ogunlana, for contempt and breach of public office conduct if she is not reinstated by September 15, 2025.

The Senate has indicated that it may continue to block her resumption when lawmakers reconvene on September 23, 2025, arguing that the matter is still under judicial review. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had attempted to return to the National Assembly in July 2025 but was denied entry by security personnel.

The NLC’s warning highlights rising tensions between Nigeria’s legislative body and civil society groups, raising concerns about democratic practices and the rule of law in the country.