Atiku: “Voice of Reason Has Prevailed Over Tyranny” as Natasha Returns to the Senate

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared that “voice of reason has prevailed over tyranny” following the unsealing of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s office in the Senate wing of the National Assembly. This development comes after months of controversy following Natasha’s suspension by the Senate. (Legit.ng - Nigeria news.)

🔍 What Happened

• Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended from the Senate for six months. During her suspension, her office was sealed and she was denied access to Senate premises. (Legit.ng - Nigeria news.)

• On Tuesday, September 23, 2025, the Senate unsealed her office and granted her access, allowing her to resume duties in the National Assembly building. (The Pledge)

🗣 Atiku’s Reaction & Key Quotes

In a statement shared via his X handle, Atiku expressed relief at the unsealing and condemned what he described as tyrannical suppression of democratic rights. Key excerpts of his message include: (Legit.ng - Nigeria news.)

“It is reassuring that the voice of reason has prevailed at last with the unsealing of the office of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Though the precious time denied the people of Kogi Central in the Senate can never be reclaimed, this struggle has not been in vain.” (Legit.ng - Nigeria news.)

“It has proven, once again, that when we stand together, we can triumph over tyranny.” (Legit.ng - Nigeria news.)

Atiku also criticized what he sees as a pattern by the Tinubu administration: using state power to silence opposition, including suspending public officials and weaponizing state institutions for political advantage. (Legit.ng - Nigeria news.)

⚖ Legal & Political Context

• Natasha had contested her suspension as illegal, especially in relation to how it was imposed and enforced. She insists she will not apologise for what she considers injustice. (The Pledge)

• The Senate’s decision to unseal her office followed pressure from various quarters including members of the opposition, civil society, media, and broad public outcry. (The Pledge)

🧐 Why It Matters

1. Constituency Representation: Kogi Central was without its properly functioning Senator for six months — a significant period during which constituents lacked full representation. Although access is now partially restored, Atiku emphasizes that time lost can’t be recovered.

2. Democratic Precedence: The situation raises important questions about how far legislative bodies can go in disciplining members, and whether suspensions can be used to suppress dissent rather than enforce rules.

3. Government Accountability: The incident and the reaction illustrate the tension between maintaining institutional order and respecting rights. Atiku’s framing suggests this is part of a wider concern about democratic erosion under the current administration.

✅ Conclusion

The return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to her Senate office is seen by Atiku and others as a triumph of democratic values over suppressive actions. While many conclude that the struggle was worth it, all agree that the incident has spotlighted crucial lessons for legislative conduct, political fairness, and citizen advocacy. The broader implication is that collective action and public pressure can still lead to correcting injustices, even in challenging times.