“I Will Not Apologise, Akpabio Is Not Above the Constitution” – Natasha Speaks After NASS Blockade

Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has lashed out at Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of disregarding a valid court order and acting above the Nigerian Constitution. The Kogi Central lawmaker vowed never to apologise, stating she would rather serve out her suspension than beg for reinstatement.

Natasha arrived at the National Assembly on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, after a Federal High Court nullified her suspension. However, the visit ended in chaos as security operatives barred her from entering the premises.

Visibly angered, she declared:

“Akpabio cannot be greater than the Nigerian Constitution. I was elected by the people of Kogi, not appointed by the Senate President. His appeal does not override Justice Binta Nyako’s judgment.”

She described the Senate’s stance as “a clear act of contempt for the rule of law”, accusing the leadership of ignoring the court’s directive.

Although the court faulted her suspension as “excessive,” it imposed a ₦5 million fine for contempt and ordered her to publish an apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page—conditions Natasha is yet to meet.

Despite this, the senator stormed the Assembly gates with activists, including Aisha Yesufu, only to be stopped by heavy security barricades and patrol vans.

“I will not apologise for an offence I didn’t commit. These gates should be open to me,” she said, referencing her long-standing feud with Akpabio, including a prior sexual harassment allegation.

Natasha hinted her legal team would approach the Court of Appeal for clarification, saying:

“I’m a law-abiding citizen. We will seek interpretation of the judgment.”

As of press time, the Senate had not issued an official statement, while Natasha reaffirmed her determination to fight for reinstatement without yielding to “pressure or intimidation.”