(PHOTOS) Natasha’s Return: Supporters Dispersed At National Assembly Gate.

 

Natasha's supporters.

After Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension by the Senate came to an end, security officers on Tuesday dispersed a crowd of her supporters and constituents gathered at the gate of the National Assembly to welcome her return.

The Kogi Central senator arrived at the legislative complex accompanied by a sizeable group of supporters, but was reportedly denied access. During the incident, security personnel deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd. Several individuals reportedly sustained injuries and were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

This occurrence followed shortly after reports emerged that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s office at the National Assembly had been restored, leading her constituents to anticipate a smooth resumption of her parliamentary responsibilities.

Eyewitnesses described the situation as tense, noting the heavy presence of security forces and the application of crowd-control tactics during what had been planned as a peaceful rally. Among those affected were women and youths who had travelled from Kogi State. Emergency services later removed some of the injured from the scene, while members of staff and lawmakers expressed concern over the turn of events.

“It was supposed to be a historic return for her, but it turned into a nightmare,” a member of the National Assembly staff commented.

In response, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan criticised the handling of the situation, stating that her return should have been managed with more respect for democratic principles. “These are innocent Nigerians who came in peace; they deserve better,” she said to journalists.

Civil society organisations and political analysts have since voiced their opinions, urging the Senate leadership to investigate the matter and to take steps to prevent similar incidents in future.