BREAKING: Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Makes Triumphant Return As Senate Resumes After 10-Week Recess — Akpabio Absent At Plenary

The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday reconvened after a 10-week recess, marking the official commencement of a new legislative session at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, presided over the plenary in the absence of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who was notably missing at the opening of proceedings — a development that did not go unnoticed among lawmakers and observers in the gallery.

One of the major highlights of the day’s session was the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, to the Red Chamber. Her reappearance, six months after her suspension, was met with visible excitement and curiosity from colleagues, marking a symbolic comeback to active legislative duty.

Clad in a bold navy-blue attire, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan exchanged pleasantries with fellow lawmakers as she settled into her seat, drawing approving nods and warm handshakes across party lines. Her return was described by some senators as a “reunion moment” that reenergized the chamber’s spirit.

The plenary session recorded an impressive turnout, reflecting lawmakers’ readiness to resume full-scale parliamentary business. The atmosphere was lively as the senators deliberated on pending national issues, including the economy, security challenges, and legislative oversight priorities for the months ahead.

Legislative aides and journalists who witnessed the session described it as “spirited and purposeful,” with senators showing renewed commitment to addressing Nigeria’s mounting socio-economic challenges.

While no official explanation was given for Senate President Akpabio’s absence, sources within the National Assembly suggested he might be attending to “official engagements outside Abuja.”

With the Senate back in full session, attention now shifts to how lawmakers will approach critical national debates, including fiscal reforms, budget preparations, and executive accountability, as the country enters a decisive phase of governance and policy direction.