Abuja | September 14, 2025 — Public affairs analyst Laolu Akande has weighed in on the ongoing controversy surrounding Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspended resumption bid, warning that the Senate must serve as a true symbol of democracy and not descend into dictatorship.
Akande, a former presidential aide, argued that preventing the Kogi Central lawmaker from taking her seat until the conclusion of her appeal sets a worrying precedent that undermines democratic representation. He stressed that the Senate is meant to protect the will of the people, not suppress it.
“The red chamber is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy. Denying a duly elected senator entry, despite judicial clearance, raises questions about fairness and respect for due process. The Senate must reflect democratic values, not authoritarian tendencies,” Akande said.
His remarks come days after the Senate leadership announced that Akpoti-Uduaghan would not be allowed to resume her legislative duties pending the resolution of a legal challenge against her election. The decision has sparked debates among political observers, with some defending it as procedural caution, while others see it as an infringement on democratic rights.
Akande maintained that democracy thrives only when institutions act with transparency and fairness. He called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his colleagues to ensure that legislative procedures do not erode public trust in Nigeria’s democratic system.
