Atiku Says Akpoti Return Proves Unity Over Tyranny

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reacted to the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate, describing the development as a victory for collective resistance against oppressive politics.

The senator representing Kogi Central resumed duties on Tuesday after the reopening of her office in the National Assembly, which had been sealed since March.

The office, located in suite 2.05 of the Senate wing, was opened by the sergeant-at-arms, bringing to an end months of enforced absence. Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 for six months after being accused of breaching Senate standing rules.

A federal high court in July declared her suspension excessive and unconstitutional, ruling that it deprived the people of Kogi Central of their representation. Despite the judgment, the National Assembly prevented her from resuming on September 9, insisting the matter was still pending before the court.

Atiku said the reopening of the office marked a hard-fought step forward for democratic representation. He explained that though time was lost, the struggle showed Nigerians that staying united against political intimidation can change outcomes.

He also linked the case to broader events in Rivers State, where Governor Simi Fubara and members of the House of Assembly faced suspension under emergency measures recently lifted by President Bola Tinubu. According to him, the use of suspensions and state institutions against opponents reflects a clear pattern in governance.

Atiku maintained that these moves are calculated to weaken the opposition and prepare the ground for manipulation ahead of the 2027 elections. He warned that the survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on constant vigilance and resistance to authoritarian tendencies.

He added that the opposition will continue to challenge every unlawful action within legal limits to protect the rights of Nigerians, safeguard their mandate, and ensure that no government subverts the collective will of the people.