Senate in Turmoil as Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Protests Seat Reassignment

A tense moment unfolded in the Senate on Thursday as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) protested the reassignment of her seat, leading to a heated confrontation during plenary.

The drama began when Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived to find her nameplate removed and her seat reassigned without prior notice. Outraged, she immediately voiced her objections, demanding an explanation for what she perceived as an unjustified move.

Citing Order 10 of the Senate Standing Rules, which protects members’ privileges, she sought recognition from Senate President Godswill Akpabio to express her concerns. However, Akpabio denied her request, further escalating tensions.

As the protest intensified, security officials, including the Sergeant-at-Arms, were called in to restore order. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central) and other senators intervened to de-escalate the situation, allowing plenary to resume.

Later, Senator Isah Jibrin (Kogi East) invoked Order 42, which allows for personal explanations, to clarify that the seat reassignments were a routine procedural matter following recent resignations and reconfigurations within the Senate. He urged Akpoti-Uduaghan to accept the change in good faith, emphasizing that such adjustments are standard practice.

“I appeal that we do not escalate this matter beyond the chamber. Seat reallocation is a normal process, and we should not let it create unnecessary division,” Jibrin said.

Senator Karimi Sunday (Kogi West), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Services, also weighed in, raising a point under Order 14, which governs privileges and discipline. He expressed displeasure that Akpoti-Uduaghan had singled him out during her protest but stated that he chose restraint over confrontation.

In his ruling, Senate President Akpabio urged all senators to remain calm and foster reconciliation. He emphasized that seat allocations are governed by Senate rules and are subject to change when necessary.

“I want the public to understand that our proceedings follow established rules and the Constitution. Seat reallocation is a routine practice, not an act of bias or exclusion,” Akpabio stated.

Citing Section 6(1) and (2) of the Senate Standing Orders, he reiterated that while senators must speak from designated seats, these assignments can be modified at the Senate President’s discretion. He urged all parties to “temper justice with mercy” and focus on their legislative responsibilities.

With the issue seemingly resolved, the Senate moved on to other legislative business. However, the incident highlighted the underlying tensions among lawmakers and the ongoing challenges of maintaining order in Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber.