Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central was on Tuesday, July 22, denied access to the National Assembly complex in Abuja, despite a Federal High Court ruling earlier this month ordering her reinstatement.

Arriving just before noon, the senator was initially stopped at the main entrance of the National Assembly. Accompanied by supporters and civil rights activist Aisha Yesufu, she attempted to walk into the complex after leaving her vehicle. However, her access was blocked again at a second security checkpoint, and the inner gate to the Senate chamber remained locked.

After some time trying to gain entry, Senator Natasha left the premises visibly disappointed. She later told reporters that she would consult with her legal team to determine the next course of action, but emphasized her commitment to resume legislative duties after the ongoing Senate recess.

Her attempted return follows a July 4 Federal High Court judgment which ruled her six-month suspension illegal and ordered her immediate recall. The court described the Senate’s action as excessive.

However, the Senate has appealed the ruling and claims it has not yet received a Certified True Copy of the judgment. It also argued that her reinstatement cannot proceed until it has had the opportunity to review the court’s directive.

Senator Natasha was suspended on March 6 over alleged infractions, including comments deemed to have breached Senate decorum and accusations of harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She later challenged the suspension in court, arguing it was politically motivated and denied the people of Kogi Central their right to representation.