Tensions flared in the Senate on Thursday after Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan clashed with the leadership over a dispute regarding her seating arrangement.

The issue arose when Akpoti-Uduaghan’s seat was reassigned following a reshuffle triggered by opposition members moving to the majority wing. However, she refused to relocate.

Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, defended the decision, citing Senate rules that grant the Senate President authority over seat adjustments. He also warned that refusal to comply could lead to penalties, including exclusion from debates.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio upheld Monguno’s directive and denied Akpoti-Uduaghan the floor when she attempted to speak from her old seat.

In protest, the Kogi lawmaker raised her voice, accusing the leadership of suppressing her.

“I don’t care if I am silenced. I am not afraid of you. You have denied me my privilege,” she declared.

The standoff escalated when Akpabio ordered the sergeant-at-arms to remove her. However, interventions from fellow lawmakers restored calm, though Akpoti-Uduaghan remained defiant in her refusal to move.