Suspended Kogi senator reappears amid vibrant plenary session presided over by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, as lawmakers don Palestinian colours in solidarity with Gaza
After a 10-week legislative recess, the Nigerian Senate resumed plenary on Tuesday, marking a spirited return to legislative business in the red chamber. The session, which was presided over by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, witnessed the much-anticipated return of embattled Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who had been serving a six-month suspension.
Senator Natasha’s reappearance was one of the most notable highlights of the day, drawing attention from both colleagues and political observers. Her presence symbolized a significant political comeback after months of controversy and absence from the national stage.
The resumption followed the annual recess that began on July 24, 2025, and was initially scheduled to end on September 23, 2025. However, Tuesday’s plenary officially marked the reopening of the upper legislative chamber for full-scale parliamentary activities.
Interestingly, Senate President Godswill Akpabio was absent at the time of resumption, leaving his deputy, Barau Jibrin, to oversee proceedings. Despite Akpabio’s absence, attendance was robust, as senators trooped in to resume legislative duties after the long break.
The atmosphere in the chamber was notably charged and colourful. Several senators arrived dressed in Palestinian colours and traditional attire, using the occasion to express solidarity with the people of Palestine. Their symbolic display underscored growing global attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and highlighted Nigeria’s lawmakers’ participation in the broader conversation on international justice and freedom.
The resumption session not only marked a return to legislative work but also signaled renewed energy and political activity in the Senate. With pressing national issues awaiting deliberation, from the economy to security and governance reforms the coming weeks promise to be intense as lawmakers settle back into their duties.
For Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, however, the day represented more than just a return to routine it
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