Natasha attempted to resume her duties at the Red Chamber on Tuesday but was stopped from gaining access.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to approach the appellate court after she was denied access into the National Assembly complex.
TheNiche had earlier reported that the lawmaker, who was suspended by the Senate earlier this year for six months, attempted to resume legislative duties on Tuesday.
She based her decision on a ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which declared her suspension unconstitutional and ordered her immediate reinstatement.
However, upon arriving at the National Assembly complex, security personnel at the gate blocked her and her entourage from gaining entry into the premises.
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Addressing journalists after the incident, the Kogi Central lawmaker condemned the action as a blatant disregard for the rule of law and accused Senate President, Godswill Akpabio of contempt.
She said, “Akpabio cannot be greater than the Nigerian Constitution. I want Nigerians to know that the Office of the Senate President does not give me legitimacy. That legitimacy comes from the people of Kogi who elected me.”
She further argued that Senate’s appeal of Justice Nyako’s ruling does not invalidate the judgment or her constitutional right to resume her duties.
Condemning the Senate’s action, she said, “This is a clear statement, it’s on record that the National Assembly under Akpabio has decided to defy a court order. It is ironic that lawmakers would lead in breaking the law. That raises serious questions about the health of our democracy.”
Speaking on her next move, Akpoti-Uduaghan said she would consult with her legal team, adding that “I’m a law-abiding citizen”
