Tensions flared in the Senate on Thursday as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan clashed with the leadership over the reassignment of her seat.
The dispute arose after a reshuffle prompted by opposition lawmakers moving to the majority wing, leading to changes in seating arrangements. However, Akpoti-Uduaghan refused to relocate.
Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, defended the adjustment, citing Senate rules that grant the Senate President authority over seat allocations. He warned that refusal to comply could result in penalties, including exclusion from debates.
Chaos erupted when Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to speak from her old seat but was denied the floor. In protest, she raised her voice, accusing the leadership of trying to silence her.
“I don’t care if I am silenced. I am not afraid of you. You have denied me my privilege,” she declared.
The situation escalated when the Senate President ordered the sergeant-at-arms to remove her. However, intervention from fellow lawmakers helped restore calm, though Akpoti-Uduaghan remained defiant in her refusal to move.
