Tensions erupted on Monday during a Senate plenary session as a dispute over seating arrangements escalated into a dramatic confrontation between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership.
The disagreement began when Senator Natasha’s designated seat was reassigned, a move she refused to accept. Chief Whip Senator Tahir Monguno defended the changes, citing Senate rules that allow such adjustments, particularly to accommodate shifts caused by opposition members moving to the majority wing.
Monguno emphasized that adherence to the new seating plan was mandatory and warned that non-compliance could result in penalties, including exclusion from Senate discussions. Senate President Godswill Akpabio upheld the ruling, reinforcing the leadership’s authority in seating arrangements.
When Senator Natasha attempted to address the chamber, she was denied recognition because she was not speaking from her reassigned seat. Undeterred, she raised her voice in protest, directly challenging the Senate President.
“I don’t care if I am silenced. I am not afraid of you. You have denied me my privilege,” the Kogi lawmaker declared, intensifying the standoff.
The Senate President ordered the sergeant-at-arms to remove her, but intervention from fellow lawmakers helped de-escalate the situation. However, Senator Natasha remained adamant in her refusal to relocate.
In response to the controversy, Senator Isah Jibrin of Kogi East condemned her actions, issuing an apology on behalf of his constituency. Similarly, Senator Sunday Karimi, Chairman of Rules and Business, cited Senate Order 10, reaffirming the Senate President’s authority to reassign seats at any time.
Karimi also recalled a separate instance where another senator had approached him about his seat, only for Senator Natasha to interrupt and disrupt the discussion.
“We don’t need to blackmail ourselves. When she joined the Senate, we extended a hand of fellowship to her and even lobbied for her to be given a chairmanship position. Despite this, she resorted to throwing tantrums. I remained calm, but I believe she owes us an apology,” Karimi stated.
Senate President Akpabio reassured lawmakers that the issue would be handled appropriately. He emphasized the Senate’s prestige and clarified that seat reassignments were a standard legislative practice.
“Movement within the chamber is part of our legislative functions. The public must understand that these adjustments are normal and necessary. 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,” Akpabio concluded.
The dramatic exchange underscored internal tensions within the Senate, highlighting the challenges of maintaining order and discipline within the chamber.
