Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has described her return to the Senate as a symbol of the resilience and courage of her constituents and Nigerians at large in the face of political intimidation.
In a statement made available to LEADERSHIP after Tuesday’s plenary—which marked her official resumption following a six-month suspension—the lawmaker said her presence in the Red Chamber was not just a personal milestone, but a victory for justice and democratic resistance.
“My attendance at plenary today is a testament of resilience by the good people of Kogi Central and Nigerians, especially their courage to resist every unscrupulous intimidation,” she said.
Making reference to past political experiences, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan drew parallels with the case of Hon. Rifkatu Danna, a former lawmaker who faced political marginalisation, adding that her own victory was not hers alone but one shared by the people and by divine justice.
“While averting Hon. Rifkatu Danna’s dilemma, our victory is the people’s—and God’s,” she stated.
She reaffirmed her commitment to serving her constituents and the country with renewed vigour and trust in the judiciary.
“I recommit myself to continued service to my constituents and country while trusting the courts to be fair and swift in adjudicating the matters before them.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return followec a court ruling declaring her suspension by the Senate as excessive and unconstitutional.
Her office, which had been locked since March 6, 2025, was unsealed ahead of her resumption.
Her comeback has been seen as a significant moment in Nigeria’s legislative history, reigniting debates around gender equity, political resistance, and legislative accountability.
