Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has raised alarm over the seizure of her international passport by officers of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) at an airport in the country.
The lawmaker, who made the revelation in a statement on Monday, said she was stopped by immigration personnel while attempting to travel abroad for an official engagement.
According to her, the officers confiscated her passport without providing any official explanation or warrant.
“I was at the airport preparing to board my flight when immigration officers approached me and asked to see my travel documents.
After a brief check, they informed me that my passport had been flagged and could not be released. When I asked for the reason, they offered no explanation,” Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.
She described the incident as a clear case of harassment and intimidation, calling on the relevant authorities to investigate the matter and ensure that her rights are not violated.
“This act is unlawful and politically motivated.
As a serving senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I have the right to travel freely unless restrained by a competent court of law. I urge the Federal Government to look into this abuse of power,” she added.
The senator further noted that the seizure of her passport disrupted her scheduled engagements abroad, including meetings with development partners and diaspora groups.
As of press time, the Nigerian Immigration Service had not issued an official statement regarding the incident. Efforts to reach the agency’s spokesperson for comments were unsuccessful.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, known for her outspoken stance on governance, transparency, and women’s empowerment, was elected to the 10th Senate in 2023. She has been a vocal critic of corruption and the marginalisation of women in Nigerian politics.
Observers say the development raises fresh concerns about due process and the protection of citizens’ rights at Nigeria’s borders.
