•Natasha
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has arrived the National Assembly as her supporters converge at the entrance to await her.
There was also an unusual security build-up at the gate of the complex with stern-looking operatives searching cars and restricting visitors to the car park outside the parliament, reports The PUNCH.
No fewer than five police patrol vehicles were stationed at a strategic area at the entrance to the Assembly complex.
The heightened security comes in the wake of a threat by Akpoti-Uduaghan to return to legislative duties amid warnings from the Senate.
The lawmaker, who was suspended in March, revealed over the weekend that she had formally notified the Senate of her intention to return, citing a recent court decision as her basis.
She told journalists during a constituency training programme that she had already written to the leadership of the Upper Chamber about her intention.
“I will be there, because the court did make the decision on that. Now, they argue that it’s an order, it’s not an order, but it is a decision,” she insisted.
The senator argued that while her suspension didn’t stop her from executing constituency projects, it had obstructed her ability to carry out vital legislative functions like sponsoring bills and moving motions.
Backing her stance, her lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, West Idahosa, maintained that the court judgment justifies her return.
“Let me be honest with you. Attendance is a legislative action.
“As far as we are concerned, we are focused on the appeal and other issues before the court.
“I think the decision to go back to the Senate will be determined by the constituents.
“Now that she said she wants to go and resume, let us see what the reaction of the Senate will be. But the most important thing is that she is still a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said in a phone interview.
Her aide, Isah Bala, remained uncertain when contacted yesterday about her exact plan.
“It is not something I can immediately confirm now because we just returned from a programme in Okene,” he said, promising to give clarification later.
As of press time, he had yet to respond to further inquiries.
Meanwhile, the Senate said it stands by its earlier decision to bar the senator from the chamber until the expiration of her suspension.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, on Sunday reaffirmed the Senate’s position, warning that there is no legal directive compelling her immediate recall.
In a related development, social activist Aisha Yesufu has vowed to accompany Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate on Tuesday in solidarity.
Appearing on Channels Television yesterday , Yesufu condemned the Senate’s stance, warning against continued disregard for judicial decisions.
She also described Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension as unconstitutional and accused the Senate of acting with impunity.
… developing story
