The protracted standoff between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership appears to be easing, following the unsealing of her office at the National Assembly.
Acting on the directive of the Senate leadership, the Sergeant-at-Arms, accompanied by security personnel, reopened the office located in the Senate wing, signaling a possible end to the 18-month dispute.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended in March 2024 for alleged misconduct. Though the suspension was set at six months, she remained barred from resuming her legislative duties after September 2024 due to continuing legal battles and resistance from Senate leadership.
A Federal High Court in Abuja had earlier declared the suspension excessive and unconstitutional, ordering her immediate recall. The Senate, however, insisted she must serve the full term.
In a fresh twist, the leadership has now softened its stance. Sources at the National Assembly confirmed that Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro is expected to move a motion requesting Akpoti-Uduaghan to tender an apology—a step that could pave the way for her full reinstatement.
The decision to unseal her office is being interpreted as a conciliatory gesture by the Senate leadership. Still, the final outcome hinges on the motion and the chamber’s collective decision in the coming days.
If adopted, the move could formally restore Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s access to legislative duties and end one of the most contentious suspension battles in recent parliamentary history.