In a significant development, the Sergeant at Arms of the National Assembly, along with combined personnel of security organisations, has unsealed the office of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, located in suite 2.05 of the Senate wing.
This move grants the suspended Senator access to her office and the National Assembly premises.
Recall that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for six months by the Senate for alleged breaches against its standing rules.
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The suspension had sparked controversy, with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Afenifere faulting the Senate’s decision and demanding her reinstatement.
The NLC described the Senate’s action as “unfair, undemocratic, and a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy”.
The development comes after a court ruling that the suspension was excessive and unconstitutional.
Despite this, the Senate had maintained that Akpoti-Uduaghan could not resume her duties without a fresh resolution or a definitive court order.
With her office now unsealed, Akpoti-Uduaghan can access the National Assembly premises, potentially paving the way for her to resume her legislative duties.
However, the outcome of her case will depend on further court proceedings, as her lawyers have maintained that she is not a flight risk and is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
