The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, resumed at the Senate Chamber on Wednesday after a one-week recess, amid an ongoing controversy over her seat allocation.
Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the National Assembly in the company of her husband, who shared a brief affectionate moment with her before she proceeded to take her seat — a gesture that caught the attention of onlookers.
The senator’s newly assigned seat has been at the heart of a heated dispute that has heightened tensions within the Senate.
The controversy took a dramatic turn after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, of sexual harassment — an allegation that Akpabio has strongly denied.
Despite the denial, the claims have sparked widespread discussions on gender equality and conduct within the legislative arm.
As the Senate resumed plenary, Natasha’s return drew significant attention as she confidently took her seat, signaling her determination to continue her legislative duties amid the storm.
Outside the National Assembly complex, protesters in support of the senator gathered in large numbers, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene.
READ ALSO:Â Chaos at National Assembly: Police Fire Tear Gas to Disperse Pro-Natasha Protesters
The protesters, largely women, accused the Senate leadership of attempting to silence female voices in the chamber.
Security operatives fired tear gas canisters to disperse the crowd, but the protesters regrouped, chanting solidarity songs and demanding justice.
Meanwhile, the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imaseun, is set to commence an investigation into Akpoti-Uduaghan’s alleged refusal to comply with Senate seating rules.
The unfolding drama has put the Senate under public scrutiny, raising fresh concerns about gender representation and accountability within Nigeria’s highest legislative body.
As the investigation begins, all eyes remain fixed on the outcome of the probe and the fate of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan in the coming days.