Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has reached out to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, inviting him and other senators to the commissioning of her constituency projects in Kogi State.
The invitation, read by Akpabio during plenary on Thursday, 30th October, marked Akpoti-Uduaghan’s first major public gesture of reconciliation since her six-month suspension from the Senate.
“In marking my second anniversary as serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I wish to invite fellow distinguished senators to join me for projects commissioning in Kogi State,” her letter stated.
According to the senator, the event will be held on Sunday in Ihima, Okene Local Government Area, with her home serving as the meeting point. She also advised senators arriving by air to use the Obajana airstrip before travelling by road to the venue.
After reading the invitation, Akpabio responded cheerfully, saying, “Congratulations in advance.”
The invitation is widely seen as a peace gesture aimed at mending strained relations between the two lawmakers.
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Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on 6th March 2025, after a confrontation with the Senate leadership over the reassignment of her seat.
Her protest during that session led to accusations of “gross misconduct” and a highly publicised walkout.
At the time, she accused Akpabio of “dictatorial” leadership, while he maintained that her behaviour violated the Senate’s rules of conduct.
Although her suspension ended in September, she regained access to her office only two weeks ago following a long standoff and legal exchanges.
Since her reinstatement, the Kogi senator has gradually resumed her legislative duties, contributing to debates and proposing amendments such as her recent input on the Criminal Code (Amendment) Bill 2025.
Thursday’s invitation to Akpabio, however, is being interpreted by political analysts as her clearest sign yet of reconciliation, a calculated move to rebuild bridges and shift focus back to governance and development.