There was a heavy security presence at the National Assembly in Abuja on Monday, July 22, following reports that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan planned to attend the Senate plenary session.

Videos shared online showed that security was much stricter than usual. Many armed officers were stationed at the main gate, carefully checking everyone before letting them into the complex.

Senator Natasha had earlier announced her intention to return to the Senate on Tuesday, saying she was acting based on a recent judgment from the Federal High Court in Abuja. The ruling was delivered by Justice Binta Nyako and, according to her, gave her the right to resume her legislative duties.

However, the Senate reacted on Sunday. Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the spokesperson for the Senate, said Natasha had misunderstood the court’s decision. He explained that the judgment only gave an advisory opinion and did not issue a legal order that the Senate must obey.

The situation has raised questions about how the Senate plans to handle the matter and whether Senator Natasha will be allowed to take her seat.