Supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, were dispersed by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force as they attempted to access the National Assembly Complex. The protesters had gathered at the assembly gate early on Tuesday, coinciding with the resumption of Senate plenary and the scheduled hearing of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
Police officers used tear gas to disperse the crowd, citing concerns over potential disorder. Following the dispersal, the protesters moved to Unity Fountain in Abuja to continue their demonstration.
The protest is linked to rising tensions following a public altercation on February 20, 2025, between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seat allocation in the Senate chamber. This clash led to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s referral to the Senate’s ethics committee for disciplinary review.
Additionally, the situation escalated last Friday when Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, claiming she was being targeted after rejecting his advances. This serious allegation has further intensified public attention on the matter.
The situation remains fluid, and more updates are expected.
