By Ekpo Ekpo — September 23, 2025 |
Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has described the reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan at the National Assembly as “a triumph of genuine reasoning over dictatorship.”
The senator, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, had earlier faced a prolonged suspension that sparked nationwide debate over political intimidation and abuse of democratic institutions. Her triumphant return has been widely seen as a landmark moment in Nigeria’s political landscape, symbolizing resistance to authoritarian tendencies.
Atiku’s reaction came hours after Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stormed the Senate complex on Tuesday alongside jubilant supporters, following the reopening of her office by the Senate authorities.
Atiku Hails Natasha’s Victory
In a strongly worded statement, Atiku said although the people of Kogi Central could not recover the six months of lost representation, the struggle had exposed systemic abuse of power in the current administration.
> “It is reassuring that the voice of reason has prevailed at last with the unsealing of the office of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Though the precious time denied the people of Kogi Central in the Senate can never be reclaimed, this struggle has not been in vain. It has proven, once again, that when we stand together, we can triumph over tyranny,” Atiku said.
He further accused the government of weaponising state institutions to silence critical voices ahead of the 2027 elections. According to him, Natasha’s suspension was part of a broader pattern that included the crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly and attempts to weaken opposition lawmakers nationwide.
Natasha’s Struggle as a Symbol of Resistance
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension and subsequent reinstatement have become symbolic of the resilience of opposition voices in Nigeria’s democracy. Many civil society groups and political analysts argue that her ordeal reflects the growing dangers of political persecution in the country.
Her return, however, has sent a strong signal that democracy can withstand authoritarian pressure if citizens and institutions remain vigilant. Supporters in Kogi Central have celebrated her comeback as not just a personal victory but a collective triumph for representation and justice.
The Bigger Political Picture
Atiku used the occasion to warn Nigerians against what he called “creeping authoritarianism” under the Tinubu administration. He alleged that targeted suspensions and harassment of lawmakers were deliberate attempts to compromise democratic institutions.
> “The suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly, the unlawful suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the weaponisation of state institutions to harass and intimidate opposition voices are not isolated acts. They are deliberate markers of the Tinubu administration’s strategy as 2027 approaches: to subvert our hard-earned democracy and compromise the will of the people at any cost,” Atiku declared.
He stressed that the opposition would remain united in defending the sovereignty of the people’s mandate and vowed to use every legitimate means within the law to protect Nigeria’s democracy.
Supporters React With Joy
Back in Kogi, Natasha’s supporters flooded social media with messages of solidarity and celebration. Videos from the National Assembly complex also showed jubilant chants and banners hailing her as a “voice of the voiceless.”
Community leaders, women groups, and youth organizations have pledged to stand firmly with her, insisting that Kogi Central must never again be deprived of representation through politically motivated actions.
What Natasha’s Return Means for Nigeria
Political observers believe Natasha’s return is more than just a personal victory; it is a test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience. If unchecked, political victimisation could set dangerous precedents for silencing dissent ahead of crucial elections.
Her reinstatement, therefore, represents a turning point for democratic accountability. It reminds Nigerians that the fight against dictatorship is ongoing, but victories—no matter how delayed—are possible when people resist together.
Conclusion
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reinstatement is not only a relief for the people of Kogi Central but also a defining moment for Nigeria’s democratic journey. It reinforces the principle that no political force should be allowed to silence the will of the people.
Atiku’s statement and the wave of nationwide reactions have positioned this event as a symbolic battle between democracy and dictatorship. For many Nigerians, Natasha’s return marks a renewed hope that genuine reasoning can still prevail over authoritarianism.
As 2027 elections approach, the unfolding events in the Senate will remain a litmus test for Nigeria’s commitment to democracy, justice, and the rule of law.
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