Senate tension as Natasha Akpoti resists Akpabio’s order

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Tensions flared in the Senate on Thursday as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan clashed with the senate leadership over a dispute regarding her seating arrangement.

The controversy arose after Akpoti-Uduaghan’s seat was reassigned following a reshuffle triggered by opposition members moving to the majority wing. However, she refused to relocate.

Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, defended the change, citing Senate rules and explaining that seat adjustments fell within the Senate President’s authority. He also warned that non-compliance could result in penalties, including exclusion from debates.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio upheld Monguno’s directive and denied Akpoti-Uduaghan the floor when she attempted to speak from her old seat.

In protest, the Kogi lawmaker raised her voice, accusing the leadership of silencing her.

“I don’t care if I am silenced. I am not afraid of you. You have denied me my privilege,” she declared.

The standoff escalated when Akpabio ordered the sergeant-at-arms to remove her. However, interventions from fellow lawmakers helped restore calm, though Akpoti-Uduaghan remained defiant in her refusal to move.

“I am not afraid of you.” Kogi central Seantor, Natasha Akpoti dares Senate President Godswill Akpabio after ordering her out of the Senate Chamber pic.twitter.com/gfCH0SyYHZ

— Africa Independent Television (@AIT_Online) February 20, 2025