Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has declared that despite her recent suspension from the Senate, her commitment to public service remained unwavering throughout the ordeal.
Speaking to journalists at the National Assembly complex on Monday, the Kogi Central lawmaker addressed her reinstatement following a court ruling that overturned her earlier suspension by the Senate Ethics Committee.
“Suspension didn’t stop me from serving,” she said with quiet defiance. “I continued engaging my constituents, intervening in community issues, supporting education and healthcare access, and amplifying the voice of the voiceless even without sitting on the red carpet of the Senate.”
Senator Natasha was suspended in April 2025 following allegations of “unparliamentary conduct” during a heated plenary debate on electoral violence in Kogi State. The suspension, widely criticized by civil society organizations and some lawmakers, was challenged in court. Last week, a Federal High Court ruled the action unconstitutional, paving the way for her return.
Clad in a cream-colored traditional attire and accompanied by cheering supporters, Senator Natasha was met with applause as she walked into the Senate building for the first time in over two months.
“It was never about the seat; it was about the people,” she said. “While they locked the doors of the Senate against me, I opened more doors in my communities—empowering women, responding to emergencies, and sponsoring scholarships.”
Political observers say Natasha’s resilience during her suspension has elevated her public profile, especially among young voters and women’s rights groups. Known for her grassroots mobilization and fiery advocacy, she has often spoken against political thuggery and marginalization in Nigeria’s democratic space.
Her return comes at a critical time, as the Senate resumes debate on key reforms affecting electoral laws, state policing, and oil-producing communities—issues on which Natasha has been particularly vocal.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in a brief comment after Monday’s session, said, “The court has spoken, and we must respect the rule of law. Senator Natasha is welcome back.”
While some critics still accuse her of being “too confrontational,” her supporters argue that Nigeria needs more lawmakers willing to challenge the status quo.
“The real suspension was from the system that fears bold women,” said Amina Yusuf, a women’s rights activist. “But Natasha kept serving—on the streets, in the schools, at the hospitals. That is leadership.”
As she returns to her legislative duties, Senator Natasha has promised to reintroduce her “Safe Elections Bill” and press harder for justice in cases of political violence in Kogi State.
“Democracy is not about comfort,” she said. “It’s about courage. And I’m not done yet.”
