Tensions erupted during Monday’s plenary as a dispute over seating arrangements led to a heated exchange between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership.
The issue began when Senator Natasha’s seat was changed at the start of the session, but she refused to comply with the adjustment.
Chief Whip Senator Tahir Monguno raised a point of order, referencing the Senate’s rule book to justify the seat reassignment.
He explained that the changes were necessary due to shifts caused by some opposition members moving to the majority wing, and argued that the Senate President had the constitutional right to make such decisions.
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Monguno further warned that failure to comply with the new seating arrangement could result in penalties, including being barred from participating in discussions.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio upheld this position, but when Senator Natasha raised her hand to speak, she was denied recognition because she was not in her newly assigned seat.
Refusing to back down, Senator Natasha protested loudly, confronting the Senate President and declaring, “I don’t care if I am silenced. I am not afraid of you. You have denied me my privilege.”
The standoff added an unexpected layer of drama to the plenary.
Senate President Akpabio ordered the sergeant-at-arms to escort her out, but after intervention from other lawmakers, calm was restored, although Senator Natasha refused to move from her seat.
In response to the controversy, Senator Isah Jibrin from Kogi East raised a point of order, condemning Natasha’s actions as inappropriate and offering an apology on behalf of his region. He expressed regret for her behavior and extended his apologies to both the Senate President and the entire Senate.
Senator Sunday Karimi, Chairman of Rules and Business, also addressed the situation, reaffirming the Senate President’s authority to reassign seats.
He explained that another senator, Samson Ekong, had sought his seat but before discussions could progress, Senator Natasha caused a disturbance by shouting his name.
Karimi expressed his displeasure at the incident, stating, “We don’t need to blackmail ourselves. When she joined the Senate, we extended a hand of fellowship to her and even lobbied for a chairmanship position. Despite this, she resorted to throwing tantrums.”
Responding to the concerns, Senate President Akpabio assured lawmakers that the issue would be addressed appropriately.
He emphasized the dignity of the Senate, describing it as one of the most prestigious legislative bodies in the world.
Akpabio reassured opposition members that seat reorganizations are a normal part of legislative practice and called for focus on the Senate’s responsibilities.
“Movement within the chamber is part of our legislative functions,” he said. “Anyone who seeks to make laws must also be prepared to follow them. Distinguished senators, let us focus on the responsibilities that brought us here.”
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