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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.
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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.
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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.
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“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.
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“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
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