Aisha Yesufu Vows to Escort Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to Senate Amid Suspension Dispute
Socio-political activist Aisha Yesufu has pledged to stand by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Kogi Central representative, as she plans to resume her duties at the Nigerian Senate on Tuesday, despite opposition from the upper chamber. Yesufu’s declaration follows a court ruling that declared the senator’s suspension unconstitutional, igniting a heated debate about gender discrimination and institutional impunity in Nigerian politics.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, Yesufu announced her intention to accompany Akpoti-Uduaghan to the National Assembly, asserting the senator’s right to resume her role. “Senator Natasha has every right to resume office, and tomorrow, she is not going alone. I’ll be one of those standing with her,” Yesufu said. “If the Senate decides they are going to kill us, let them kill us.”
Yesufu condemned what she described as systemic discrimination against women in Nigerian politics, highlighting the underrepresentation of women in the Senate. “Out of 109 senators, we have only four women, yet they go after this particular lady who has done nothing but discharge her duties,” she said. “Enough of treating women as second-class citizens in this country.”
The activist labeled Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension as unconstitutional and criticized the Senate for disregarding a court judgment that nullified the suspension. “The Senate is not above the law. The court ruled that the suspension is unlawful, and Natasha was elected by her people, not the Senate. Denying her the right to represent them is an attack on democracy,” Yesufu stated.
She further accused the Senate of acting with impunity by ignoring court orders and criticized the judiciary for allegedly succumbing to political influence. “The judiciary, meant to be the last hope of the common man, is now a pawn in the hands of corrupt politicians. Even when judgments are delivered, they are dictated by those in power,” she added.
The controversy surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has drawn significant attention, with many viewing it as part of broader tensions within the Senate. The Kogi Central senator, one of only four female senators, has been a vocal advocate for her constituents, which some analysts suggest may have contributed to her suspension.
As of press time, the Senate leadership had not issued a statement responding to Yesufu’s comments or the planned action at the National Assembly. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s office also declined to comment, though sources close to the senator confirmed her intention to resume her duties on Tuesday.
The unfolding situation is likely to intensify debates about gender equality, judicial independence, and the rule of law in Nigeria’s political sphere. Observers are closely monitoring developments as Yesufu and other supporters prepare to accompany Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate chambers.
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