“They Feared Political Persecution” — Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Opens Up on Colleagues’ Silence During Her Suspension

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has revealed that many of her colleagues in the National Assembly refrained from publicly supporting her during her six-month suspension out of fear of political persecution.

Speaking during the commissioning of a new market in Okene, Kogi State, Natasha said that while several senators expressed private solidarity, they avoided public association with her to protect their political standing.

“When a government official faces challenges, isolation comes naturally,” she said.
“Even when people are sympathetic, they are afraid to associate with you openly for fear of being castigated or persecuted. Many senators stood by me quietly — they called, they visited — but in public, they couldn’t show it. I’m not offended by that.”


The lawmaker described her suspension as illegal, arguing that it exposed the fear and intimidation that influence behavior within government institutions.

Recall that Senator Natasha was suspended in March over allegations involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio, but made her return to the Red Chamber in September after serving her six-month suspension.

The family of 13-year-old Ochanya Ogbanje — who died in 2018 after prolonged sexual abuse — has again appealed for justice, calling on First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and IGP Kayode Egbetokun to act.

During an interview, Ochanya’s brother John Ameh said the family continues to suffer trauma and has received death threats for pursuing the case. He accused influential individuals of protecting the suspects and criticized police inaction, noting the key suspect has not been arrested seven years later.

Ochanya was allegedly abused by lecturer Andrew Ogbuja and his son Victor. The lecturer was acquitted in 2022 for lack of evidence, while Victor remains at large. Ochanya’s aunt was sentenced to five months for negligence.

The case has sparked renewed public outrage and support online under the hashtag #justiceforchanya, with prominent Nigerians, including Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, joining calls for justice.

Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Extends Olive Branch to Akpabio with Project Commissioning Invitation.

Relations between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) and Senate President Godswill Akpabio appear to be warming as the Kogi lawmaker has invited Akpabio and other Senators to a project commissioning in her constituency.

The invitation, personally signed by Akpoti-Uduaghan, was read by Akpabio during Thursday’s plenary. The event, scheduled for Sunday in Ihima, Kogi State, is part of activities marking her second year in the Senate.

“In marking my second-year anniversary as a serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I wish to invite fellow Distinguished Senators to join me for projects commissioning in Kogi State,” the letter stated.

The meeting point is Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s residence at Plot 101, Jimoh Akpoti Street, Ihima, Okene. Senators arriving by air were advised to use the Obajana Airstrip before proceeding to the venue by road.

After reading the letter, Akpabio responded briefly but warmly: “Congratulations in advance.”

The gesture is seen as a step toward reconciliation following their contentious dispute earlier this year over Senate seat reallocation, a conflict that led to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension on March 6. 

Since returning on September 24, she has gradually resumed active participation in plenary, including contributing to debates such as the Criminal Code Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

Her latest invitation marks the clearest public sign yet of a renewed working relationship with the Senate leadership.

Senator Natasha violated Penal Code, must face Criminal Charges – FG.

The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has insisted that the defamation charges filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan were properly instituted in line with the provisions of the Penal Code Law of Nigeria and the Constitution.

The AGF’s office stated this in its response to the senator’s preliminary objection to the three-count criminal charge pending before the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Maitama, presided over by Justice Chizoba Oji.

The charges against Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, stemmed from petitions filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, following her public claims that the duo had conspired to assassinate her.

AGF Insists Charges Are Lawful
In its counter-affidavit, the AGF’s office maintained that the decision to prosecute the senator was taken after a comprehensive investigation by the Nigeria Police Force, which reviewed all petitions from both the complainants and the defendant.

“The three counts were preferred against the defendant pursuant to the Penal Code Law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and in the bona fide exercise of the prosecutorial powers of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation as guaranteed under the Constitution,” the prosecution stated.

It further argued that the senator’s actions contravened provisions of the law, stressing that the case was filed “in the public interest, the interest of justice, and to prevent abuse of legal process.”

According to the AGF’s office, the charges were neither politically motivated nor an abuse of prosecutorial power.

“The criminal charge against the defendant arose from the comprehensive and conclusive investigation of the case, including all petitions and parties involved, by the Nigeria Police Force.”

Drama in Senate as Natasha Confronts Akpabio Over Abortion Debate, Oshiomhole Cites Rule to Stop Her.

There was mild drama during Tuesday’s plenary session in the Nigerian Senate as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan confronted Senate President Godswill Akpabio after being denied the chance to speak on the issue of abortion.

Senator Natasha, visibly displeased, pleaded to be heard, saying, “Mr. Senate President, please may I speak. I’m a woman, and abortion has to do with women it’s very important, sir.”

The Senate President responded that the matter had already been stepped down, but he briefly allowed her to add a comment if necessary.
“This has been stepped down in totality, distinguished senator, but if you have anything to add, you can say,” Akpabio stated.

However, former Edo State governor and senator, Adams Oshiomhole, immediately objected, insisting that parliamentary rules must be respected.

“Mr. President, we’ve been tutored over and over that when a matter has been concluded and you’ve dropped the gavel, if you grant an exception to distinguished Senator Natasha, then you must extend the same extension to us which makes our rule meaningless. The rule should be obeyed. We have said no discussion, and she should obey the rule,” Oshiomhole maintained.

In his final ruling, Akpabio clarified that he did not initially know the nature of Natasha’s intended comment, saying,
“I am not a spirit to know what the senator wants to say. If I knew, I would have referred her to Rule 52, Subsection 6. Since the Senate has come to a conclusion, it shall be out of order.”

He then ruled Senator Natasha out of order, ending the exchange.

“The Flame May Flicker, But It Must Never Die” — Senate President Akpabio Delivers Stirring Independence Message at 65th Anniversary


In a session that beautifully merged celebration with governance, Senate President Godswill Akpabio delivered an emotional address to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, urging unity, resilience, and a renewed sense of national purpose.

Speaking during plenary at the National Assembly, Akpabio congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all Nigerians on the nation’s milestone, describing independence as a timeless reminder of the sacrifices made by heroes who fought for freedom and self-determination.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey since 1960, Akpabio described nation-building as an enduring process rather than a one-time event.

“After we hoisted our flag of freedom 65 years ago, we are reminded that the journey of nationhood is not a sprint but a marathon,” he said.
“It is a relay of faith and sacrifice — one generation handing the torch to the next.”


He encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast amid present challenges, adding that “the flame may flicker, but it must never be allowed to die.” Akpabio also drew inspiration from the national anthem, reminding the Senate that “the labors of our heroes past” should continue to guide the country toward justice, peace, and prosperity.

Acknowledging Nigeria’s mixed history of “shadow and sunshine,” Akpabio praised the legislature’s role in sustaining democracy and called on lawmakers to work collectively toward governance that truly serves the people.

The session also featured a symbolic moment — the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan after a period of medical recovery. Her presence underscored Akpabio’s message of resilience, continuity, and inclusiveness in national leadership.

The Senate President’s message struck a balance between celebration and reflection, highlighting the importance of perseverance and unity in keeping Nigeria’s democratic flame alive.

Sen Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Returns to The Senate After Serving Six-Month Suspension

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, made her return to the Senate on Tuesday at about 11:42 a.m., marking the end of her six-month suspension.

The senator entered the chamber smiling confidently, exchanged greetings with a few colleagues, and settled into her seat. She was accompanied by a group of loyal supporters and activists, including Aisha Yesufu, who observed proceedings from the gallery.

Her return follows a court ruling that described her suspension as excessive. The Senate had earlier reopened her office in compliance with the judgment, days after initially insisting she remained suspended due to pending litigation.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s resumption comes amid lingering controversy surrounding her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

National Assembly Tightens Security Near Senate President’s Office Amid Tensions with Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan

An internal memo dated October 2 and signed by Brig-Gen Etido E. Ekpo (retd) informed lawmakers that security around the Senate Chamber and corridor near the Senate President’s office in Abuja would be tightened. The corridor from the White House lobby will now only be accessible to senators and House members, with aides and personal assistants barred from entry. Lawmakers were asked to notify their staff of the restriction.

This development comes days after Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) criticized Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of running the National Assembly like a dictatorship and treating her disrespectfully. Her comments followed her return to office after a six-month suspension, which she described as a test of resilience against injustice.

National Assembly Tightens Security Ahead of Resumption
Photo of Daniel Daniel Daniel.

The National Assembly has announced heightened security measures around key areas of its complex in Abuja ahead of lawmakers’ resumption from their annual recess on October 7.

The new development was made known on Thursday via an internal memo issued by the Office of the Serjeant-at-Arms and addressed to the Chairman of the Senate Services Committee.

According to the communication, access to certain strategic locations, including the Senate Chamber, the main gangway, and the corridor leading past the Senate President’s office, will now be restricted to senators and members of the House of Representatives only.

The memo, dated October 2 and signed by Brigadier-General Etido E. Ekpo (retd), stated that “all aides or personal assistants would not be allowed into the said corridor.” Lawmakers were also advised to communicate the new directive to their aides ahead of the resumption date.

The tightened security comes just days after Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, regained access to her office in Room 205 of the Senate wing, six months after it was sealed following her controversial suspension by the Senate leadership. Speaking after security personnel and the Serjeant-at-Arms formally unsealed the office, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the experience as “a test of resilience against injustice.”

Both chambers of the National Assembly had initially adjourned plenary on July 24 until September 23 for their annual two-month recess. However, in a brief statement issued last month, the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, announced that the resumption date had been shifted to October 7.

Massive Crowd Welcomes Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Back to National Assembly After Suspension

Mamman Adavize Abdulrasak, a constituent of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has recounted the dramatic scenes that unfolded when the lawmaker returned to the National Assembly after her six-month suspension.

Speaking in an interview with TVC News, Abdulrasak revealed that over 3,000 supporters thronged the National Assembly to show solidarity with the senator.

He recalled how Natasha was overwhelmed when she saw the massive crowd waiting outside the FCT High Court after a court session. In a symbolic show of resilience, about five to six of her close friends and family members walked barefoot with her from the court to the National Assembly.

According to Abdulrasak, this act reflected the people’s frustration over being denied representation for months and their determination to stand by their senator.

“Her victory was not just personal—it was the will of the people. They were ready for legitimate resistance to ensure their mandate was respected,” he said.

He stressed that the constituents’ main grievance was against the National Assembly for silencing their voice, adding that Natasha’s return marked a triumph of people power over political exclusion.

Drama as Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Supporters Tear-Gassed at National Assembly.

Supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan were dispersed with tear gas at the National Assembly gates as she attempted to resume duties after her six-month suspension.
Her followers, who accompanied her to the complex, were denied access beyond certain points.

There was drama in Abuja on Tuesday when supporters of embattled Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, were dispersed with tear gas at the gate of the National Assembly.

The incident happened shortly after the expiration of Natasha’s six-month suspension, raising hopes that she would resume her duties. She arrived at the complex with a large crowd, many of whom were denied access.

Condemning the action, Natasha told journalists:

“These are innocent Nigerians who came in peace; they deserve better.”

Natasha had been suspended for six months over alleged violation of Senate rules, a decision that drew widespread criticism. Though she challenged it in court in July, her bid to return was unsuccessful. With the suspension now served out, she has declared her intention to resume duty.

In other news… A young lady has stirred debate on social media after claiming that every man a woman meets automatically owes her money.

In a viral video, she explained why she believed men are in debt to women. She compared it to Black Americans in the United States fighting for reparations for their stolen land, saying in the same way, men owe women money.

According to her, men have pushed women out of positions of power, denied them work, and taken opportunities that could have earned them money. Because of this, she argued, all men owe women.

Senator Natasha Returns To Office Six Months After Suspension
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan's supporters cheered and danced as they accompanied her from the FCT High Court to the NASS Complex on Tuesday.

National Assembly Reopens Senator Natasha’s Office.

The National Assembly has reopened the office of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, after six months under seal.

The office, located in Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing, was unsealed on Tuesday by Alabi Adedeji, Deputy Director of the Sergeant-at-Arms.

“To unseal Senator Natasha Akpoti’s office, I, Alabi Adedeji, Deputy Director, Sergeant-at-Arms, hereby unseal the office,” he announced before unlocking the door.

The move potentially clears the path for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to resume duties in the Red Chamber when plenary reconvenes on October 7, 2025.

Today's Headlines: Natasha Accuses FG of Double Standard; US Vows Visa Ban on Corrupt Nigerian VIPs.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused the Federal Government of political persecution and double standards over the six-count criminal defamation charges filed against her. The lawmaker, representing Kogi Central, argued in court that while her petitions against Senate President Godswill Akpabio were ignored, the government rushed to prosecute her based on complaints from Akpabio and former Kogi governor Yahaya Bello. Her legal team, led by four Senior Advocates of Nigeria, described the charges as unconstitutional, frivolous, and aimed at silencing opposition voices.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who pleaded not guilty in June and was granted bail on self-recognition, insists the case is a misuse of the criminal justice system. She contends that defamation is civil in nature and should not be criminalised. Meanwhile, a coalition of over 350 women’s rights groups has petitioned the United Nations, alleging gender-based discrimination in her suspension from the Senate. The activists argue that the standoff undermines women’s participation in politics and breaches Nigeria’s international obligations. The matter resumes in court on October 20

Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger withdraw from ICC.

The planned commencement of trial in the cybercrime charges brought against suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before a Federal High Court in Abuja was stalled yesterday, owing to an objection raised by the defendant.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned on June 30 on a six-count charge filed by the
Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mohammed Abubakar, and granted bail, following which Justice Mohammed Umar adjourned till September 22 for commencement of trial.

When the case was called yesterday, prosecuting lawyer, David Kaswe, told the court that the business of the day was for the prosecution to open its case by calling its first witness.

Kaswe, who had a television screen mounted in the courtroom preparatory to the commencement of proceedings, told the court that the prosecution had a witness in court and was ready to proceed.

Responding, defence counsel, Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), expressed concern about the possibility of the prosecution opening its case.

West-Idahosa said his client has filed a notice of preliminary objection to challenge the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case.

He said the objection is not to the nature of the charge, but the alleged abuse of the prosecutorial powers of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

The defence lawyer also complained about not being served copies of the statements of the prosecution witnesses.

Natasha’s trial stalls as women groups petition United Nations.

The planned commencement of trial in the cybercrime charges brought against suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before a Federal High Court in Abuja was stalled yesterday, owing to an objection raised by the defendant.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned on June 30 on a six-count charge filed by the
Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Mohammed Abubakar, and granted bail, following which Justice Mohammed Umar adjourned till September 22 for commencement of trial.

When the case was called yesterday, prosecuting lawyer, David Kaswe, told the court that the business of the day was for the prosecution to open its case by calling its first witness.

Kaswe, who had a television screen mounted in the courtroom preparatory to the commencement of proceedings, told the court that the prosecution had a witness in court and was ready to proceed.

Responding, defence counsel, Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), expressed concern about the possibility of the prosecution opening its case.

West-Idahosa said his client has filed a notice of preliminary objection to challenge the court’s jurisdiction to hear the case.

He said the objection is not to the nature of the charge, but the alleged abuse of the prosecutorial powers of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).

The defence lawyer also complained about not being served copies of the statements of the prosecution witnesses.

Alleged Cybercrime Case Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Stalls, Adjourned to October 20

The cybercrime trial of suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was adjourned to October 20, 2025, after her legal team filed a preliminary objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction. The objection, raised by her counsel Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), questions the alleged abuse of prosecutorial powers by the Attorney General of the Federation.

The senator, arraigned on June 30 on a six-count charge under the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act 2024, is accused of spreading false information electronically to incite violence and public disorder. Specifically, she is alleged to have publicly claimed that Senate President Godswill Akpabio instructed former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello to kill her.

At the resumed hearing on September 22, prosecution counsel David Kaswe said they were ready to begin, with a witness present. However, the judge, Justice Mohammed Umar, ruled that the court must first resolve the jurisdictional objection before proceeding with the trial.

Key Allegations Against Akpoti-Uduaghan:

Accused of transmitting false, inciting information electronically.

Allegedly stated that Akpabio and Yahaya Bello plotted her assassination.

Charges brought under the Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention, etc. (Amendment) Act 2024.

Court Adjourns Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Cybercrime Trial to October 20.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the cybercrime trial of suspended Kogi Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to October 20, 2025, after her defence team challenged the court’s jurisdiction.
She faces six charges under the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024, over statements allegedly implicating Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Governor Yahaya Bello in threats to her life.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the cybercrime trial of suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to October 20, 2025, after her defence team challenged the court’s jurisdiction.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, arraigned on June 30 and granted bail on self-recognition, faces a six-count charge under the Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2024.

One of the counts alleged: “That on or about April 1, 2025, while addressing a crowd at Ihima Community, Kogi State, you — Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan — intentionally caused the following communication to be transmitted via a computer system and network, to wit: ‘…and Akpabio told Yahaya Bello, I am saying, standing by what I have said. He told him that he should make sure that killing me does not happen in Abuja, it should be done here, so it will seem as if it is the people that killed me here…’ And you… knew this contained a threat that could harm the reputation of Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, as the President of the Senate…”

Another charge stated the same words but linked the alleged threat to “Yahaya Adoza Bello, a former Governor of Kogi State.”

At Monday’s sitting, prosecuting counsel David Kaswe announced readiness to proceed, saying the first witness was present and a television screen mounted in court. But Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN), objected, arguing it was an abuse of the Attorney-General’s powers and that the defence had not been served witness statements.

Justice Mohammed Umar ruled that the objection must first be resolved before trial, and adjourned the case to October 20.

Onoja Reveals: “Yahaya Bello Once Asked Me To Stand Up And Greet Natasha At Govt House”

Former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Edward Onoja, has shed light on the once cordial relationship between ex-Governor Yahaya Bello and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Speaking during an interview on the Mic On Podcast, Onoja recalled how Natasha was first introduced into the All Progressives Congress (APC) by Governor Bello himself. According to him, the two enjoyed a friendly bond at the time, often sharing meals together and showing mutual respect beyond politics.

Narrating a particular incident at the Glass House in the Kogi State Government House, Onoja said Governor Bello asked him to vacate his seat and greet Natasha personally, which he did without hesitation.

“There was a time when Natasha was part of the APC, invited by His Excellency the governor. They were close friends and often dined together. On one occasion in the Glass House, the governor instructed me to stand and greet her. I did as directed because when your principal gives an instruction, you follow it,” Onoja said.

His revelation offers a rare glimpse into the interpersonal dynamics of Kogi politics, highlighting how political alliances and personal friendships shaped key interactions in the state’s ruling party at the time.

Onoja’s comments contrast with today’s political climate, where relationships among major players in the state appear far more strained.

SERAP Demands Senate Reinstate Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

the Clerk of the National Assembly on August 28, noting that her six-month suspension had elapsed and citing a July court judgment that declared her suspension excessive and unlawful. However, the Acting Clerk, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, said the matter remains subjudice due to an appeal filed by the Senate President. SERAP insisted that pending court cases cannot be used to block her resumption and demanded that her salaries and allowances be paid.

#Senate #SERAP #NatashaAkpotiUduaghan