Embattled Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, finally took her seat in the Senate chamber on Tuesday, six months after a six-month suspension.

The Senate resumed plenary on Tuesday after a 10-week recess, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio presiding over the session.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return followed several unsuccessful attempts to resume her duties. She was suspended in March for allegedly violating the Senate’s standing rules, a decision that drew widespread criticism from civil society groups and opposition politicians.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker had taken the matter to court in July after the Senate prevented her from returning. Though the case remains in court, her six-month suspension expired in September.

She subsequently wrote to the Senate notifying it of her intention to resume plenary duties. While the Senate acknowledged her letter, it initially declined to act on it pending the conclusion of the legal process.

Her office, located in Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing, was finally unsealed on September 23 by Deputy Director and Sergeant-at-Arms, Alabi Adedeji, enabling her return.

“For me, I am glad to be here,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said as she resumed. “Even though we were illegally suspended, I have never stopped working to serve the people of Kogi Central to the best of my ability.”

In an expression of international solidarity, several senators appeared in Palestinian colours and attire, voicing support for a free Palestine.

In his opening address, Senator Akpabio urged his colleagues to recommit themselves to accountability, discipline, and purposeful governance.

“To the citizens of Nigeria, we hear you,” he said. “You asked us not for excuses, but for results. We will remain accountable and responsive.”

The Senate, along with the House of Representatives, had adjourned on July 24 for its annual legislative recess. However, ad hoc and standing committees were instructed to continue their work during the break.

Senator Akpabio also encouraged members to use the period to finalise pending reports and conduct oversight visits.

Originally slated to last two months, the recess was expected to end on September 23, 2025, but the resumption was postponed by two weeks. Lawmakers eventually reconvened on October 7.

The annual recess is a routine part of the National Assembly’s legislative calendar, allowing lawmakers to balance national duties with constituency engagements and personal commitments.