The Nigerian Senate reconvened on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, after a 10-week recess, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio presiding over a fully attended plenary session that marked the official return to legislative business.
Among the most notable moments of the day was the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, who rejoined her colleagues in the Red Chamber six months after her suspension. Her reappearance drew significant attention from both lawmakers and the public, signalling a long-awaited comeback following months of legal and political tension.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March for alleged violations of the Senate’s standing rules, a move that drew widespread criticism from civil society groups and opposition figures. Though she challenged the decision in court, her initial attempts to resume sitting were rebuffed by the Senate leadership until her six-month suspension expired in September.
Her office, which had been sealed since her suspension, was reopened on September 23 by the Sergeant-at-Arms. “Even though we had been illegally suspended, no day have I hesitated in carrying out my duties as the senator of Kogi Central,” she said upon her return to Suite 2.05 in the Senate Wing.
Tuesday’s plenary also witnessed a symbolic display of solidarity with Palestine as some lawmakers arrived dressed in Palestinian colours. The show of support coincided with renewed calls for international peace in the Middle East.
In his opening address, Senate President Akpabio urged lawmakers to recommit themselves to accountability, discipline, and effective governance. “To the citizens of Nigeria, we hear you. You asked us not for excuses, but for results. We will remain accountable and responsive,” he declared.
The Senate had originally been expected to reconvene on September 23, but the date was postponed by two weeks. During the recess, committees were directed to continue oversight duties and finalise pending reports.
The resumption marks the beginning of a new legislative phase focused on national reforms, pending bills, and oversight matters that accumulated during the recess.
