Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force on Tuesday dispersed supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, as they attempted to gain access to the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
The protesters reportedly gathered at the assembly gate as early as 8:00 a.m., coinciding with the resumption of plenary and the scheduled hearing of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. However, security personnel deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, citing the need to maintain law and order.
Following the intervention, the demonstrators relocated to the Unity Fountain in Abuja to continue their protest.
The demonstration comes in the wake of heightened tensions between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. On February 20, 2025, both lawmakers clashed over seating arrangements in the Senate chamber, leading to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s referral to the Senate’s ethics committee.
Further intensifying the controversy, Akpoti-Uduaghan last Friday accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, alleging that she was being targeted for rejecting his advances. The claims have since sparked widespread public debate and scrutiny.
More updates to follow.
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