Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has reacted to reports of reconciling with Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
The lawmaker explained that her invitation to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other lawmakers for the commissioning of projects in Kogi State was done according to legislative procedure.
Her invitation to Akpabio has sparked public reactions, with many suggesting that it may be a sign of reconciliation between both lawmakers after their bitter clash earlier in the year.
The invitation, sent on Thursday, came two months after her return from a six-month suspension from the Senate.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is marking her second year in office this week, said she sent a formal letter through the presiding officer for it to be read on the Senate floor, in line with parliamentary tradition.
She stated that the invitation was meant to promote inclusiveness and transparency in celebrating completed constituency projects, not a personal event.
The lawmaker also said she remains dedicated to her duties despite ongoing legal matters and will continue to follow due process in all her actions.
She said: “I put out the invitation so it wouldn’t seem like I was celebrating in isolation. I’m a progressive person. Even with ongoing court cases, I continue to carry out my duties in the chamber and follow proper procedures.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio had a heated disagreement in February over seating arrangements in the Senate, which later led to her accusing him of harassment, an allegation he denied.
The Senate suspended her on March 6 following a report by the committee on ethics, privileges, and public petitions.
Since her return to the chamber on September 24, the senator has resumed active participation in legislative activities.
