In a dramatic turn of events during Monday’s plenary session, tensions escalated over a disagreement regarding seating arrangements, leading to a confrontation between Senator Natasha Akpoti and the Senate leadership.
The situation arose when Senator Natasha’s assigned seat was changed at the start of the session, a modification she firmly rejected.
Chief Whip Senator Tahir Monguno stepped in, citing Senate regulations to defend the reassignment. He explained that the adjustments were necessary due to some opposition members switching to the majority side, a move within the constitutional authority of the Senate President.
Monguno warned that noncompliance with the new seating arrangement could lead to serious consequences, including exclusion from discussions on the Senate floor.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio backed this position. However, when Senator Natasha Akpoti sought to address the chamber, her attempt was thwarted as she was denied recognition for not speaking from her newly designated seat.
In a show of defiance, Senator Natasha protested, directly confronting the Senate President, stating, “I don’t care if I am silenced. I am not afraid of you. You have denied me my privilege.”
The confrontation added an unexpected drama to the proceedings. Following the Senate President’s order for the sergeant-at-arms to escort her out, various lawmakers intervened, ultimately restoring some measure of calm, though Senator Natasha remained resolute in her stance.
