The Nigerian Senate resumed plenary on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, following a 10-week recess, with Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin presiding over the session in the absence of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Among the notable attendees was Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, who returned to the chamber after serving a six-month suspension. Her presence marked a significant development, given the controversy surrounding her suspension earlier in the year.
Despite Senator Akpabio’s conspicuous absence, there was a strong turnout of lawmakers, signaling a full return to legislative business. In a notable act of international solidarity, some senators attended the plenary session dressed in Palestinian colours and attire, expressing support for the Free Palestine movement.
Legislative Recess and Resumption
The National Assembly had adjourned for its annual recess on July 24, 2025. During the break, ad hoc and standing committees were advised to continue their legislative duties, including oversight functions and completion of pending reports. Lawmakers were initially expected to resume on September 23. However, the resumption was postponed by two weeks, with plenary eventually reconvening on October 7.
The annual recess is a routine aspect of the legislative calendar, allowing lawmakers to balance national responsibilities with constituency engagements and personal matters.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Return
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return comes after several unsuccessful attempts to re-enter the chamber following her suspension in March 2025 for allegedly violating Senate standing rules—a move that drew sharp criticism from civil society groups and opposition leaders. While the Senate defended its decision, many described it as politically motivated.
In July, the PDP senator filed a legal challenge against the suspension and attempted to resume plenary, but the Senate declined to reinstate her pending the outcome of the court case. Her six-month suspension officially ended in September, after which she wrote to the Senate to notify them of her intention to return. The Senate acknowledged her letter but initially insisted that no action would be taken until the court matter was resolved.
Office Reopened After Six Months
On September 23, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s office, located in Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing, was officially unsealed by Deputy Director of the Sergeant-at-Arms, Alabi Adedeji. The reopening paved the way for her physical return to office and participation in Senate activities.
Speaking from her office for the first time in six months, she expressed her satisfaction at being back:
“For me, I am glad to be here. Even though we had been illegally suspended, no day have I hesitated in effectively carrying out my duties as the senator of Kogi Central to the very best of my capacity.”
