The HallowMace Foundation Africa, a non-partisan civil society organisation advocating equity, governance, and justice, has called for constructive dialogue to address concerns arising from the recent denial of access to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan at the National Assembly complex, despite a court ruling nullifying her suspension.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Executive Director, Sunny Anderson Osiebe, the Foundation urged relevant stakeholders including the Senate leadership and judicial authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve the impasse and safeguard the democratic principle of representation.
The Foundation cited the Federal High Court ruling of July 4, 2025, which nullified the six-month suspension earlier imposed on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, on grounds that it violated the constitutional rights of both the senator and her constituents. The court, while affirming the Senate’s disciplinary powers, ruled that the penalty was disproportionate.
However, on July 22, the senator was reportedly denied entry to the National Assembly, with security personnel allegedly citing internal directives. The incident has generated widespread public debate, particularly on the enforceability of the court’s decision pending the resolution of an appeal reportedly filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The Foundation expressed concern that the situation may lead to the disenfranchisement of the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District and potentially undermine public confidence in democratic institutions.
“As an impartial governance advocate, we acknowledge the complex interplay between legislative autonomy, judicial authority, and the constitutional right to representation,” the statement read in part. “Prolonged uncertainty over Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s status risks further eroding public trust in Nigeria’s democratic framework.”
To avoid further escalation, HallowMace Foundation proposed a three-pronged approach to resolving the issue, including immediate multi-party dialogue involving Senate leadership, the senator, and representatives of the judiciary; the constitution of an independent mediation panel to clarify legal ambiguities and review legislative disciplinary processes; and greater transparency regarding security protocols and institutional decisions.
The Foundation reiterated its willingness to serve as a neutral facilitator in the reconciliation process, noting that “Nigeria’s democratic resilience lies in resolving institutional disagreements through dialogue and not confrontation.”
“All parties share the noble goal of strengthening our democracy for every Nigerian,” the statement concluded.
