All gates leading to the National Assembly complex were all locked on Monday by security operatives on Tuesday to prevent Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from accessing the premises as the senate resumes plenary.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi central, had vowed to resume legislative duties following a court ruling that the senate should consider recalling her.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March over alleged misconduct on the floor of the senate.
She had accused Godswill Akpabio, the senate president, of sexual harassment. He has since denied the allegation.
The Cable reports that the Akpabio who arrived the national assembly in a black vehicle, was stopped at the gate by security personnel who insisted she could not be allowed in.
Her convoy was turned back, including a car conveying Aisha Yesufu, an activist.
Despite the blockade, Akpoti-Uduaghan stepped out of her car and proceeded on foot toward the main entrance of the assembly complex, accompanied by some supporters who cheered her on.
Her attempted return comes days after she cited a court judgment as grounds for resuming her legislative duties.
However, the senate noted that no such order compels her immediate reinstatement.
The senate had in a statement on Sunday by Yemi Adaramodu, its spokesperson, said the court only gave a non-binding advisory and did not issue any mandatory directive requiring the senate to recall Akpoti-Uduaghan.
He added that the senate would review the court’s advisory at the appropriate time and communicate its decision accordingly.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to resume has heightened tension within the legislature and drawn public attention to the issues surrounding her suspension.
