The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, was on Tuesday prevented from entering the National Assembly complex despite a court ruling ordering her reinstatement.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier announced her intention to resume legislative duties following a judgment by Justice Binta Murtala Nyarko of the Federal High Court, which described her suspension from the Senate as “excessive” and ordered her reinstatement.

Over the weekend, the embattled Senator disclosed that she would be returning to plenary this week in compliance with the court ruling. However, on arrival at the National Assembly complex, she was reportedly denied access by security operatives.

Ahead of her appearance, Akpoti-Uduaghan was also said to have requested the reinstatement of her official security detail, which had been withdrawn following her suspension.

In response to her announced return, Senate Spokesman Yemi Adaramodu issued a statement on Sunday insisting that no court had ordered her resumption, thereby casting doubt on the enforceability of the ruling.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended earlier this year following the outcome of an investigation by the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges into her conduct during a heated session on the floor of the Senate.

The confrontation reportedly stemmed from the reassignment of seats in the Senate chamber, which affected her position and led to a verbal altercation with the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.

The crisis further escalated after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment — an allegation that has generated public interest and political tension.

Following her failure to appear before the Senate Committee to defend herself against the allegations, the Senate imposed an indefinite suspension, which the Senator has since challenged in court.

With the latest legal development favoring Akpoti-Uduaghan, attention now shifts to how the standoff between the Senator and the leadership of the Senate will unfold.

Observers say the unfolding political drama may test the balance between judicial authority and legislative independence, with the question remaining: who will blink first?