We’re Not Cowards!” – Aisha Yesufu Slams Senate Over Natasha’s Blockage

Renowned socio-political activist Aisha Yesufu on Tuesday accompanied suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the National Assembly, only to be denied access by security operatives at the gate.

This development comes a day after Yesufu openly declared her support for Akpoti-Uduaghan, affirming that the senator had every legal right to resume her duties as the duly elected representative of Kogi Central, based on a Federal High Court ruling that nullified her suspension.

Despite notifying both the Senate and the Inspector-General of Police of her planned return, Akpoti-Uduaghan was barred from entering the complex. She and Yesufu were confronted by heavily armed security personnel and locked gates.

An outraged Yesufu demanded answers, questioning the legality of the blockade.

“This is the people’s National Assembly—why are you blocking us?” she asked.

Fuming at the treatment, Yesufu accused the Senate leadership of deliberately trying to silence a lawful representative, warning that peaceful conduct should not be mistaken for timidity.

“Being law-abiding doesn’t mean we are cowards. Do they want to kill us?” she said defiantly at the gate.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to re-enter the Senate chamber follows a landmark court judgment that declared her suspension illegal and excessive. However, the Senate insists her suspension still stands, citing an ongoing appeal filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Her appearance at the National Assembly on July 22, 2025, triggered a heightened security response and renewed tensions over the rule of law and legislative overreach.