BREAKING: Inspector-General Egbetokun Shuns Senator Natasha's Request To Restore Police Protection Ahead Of Plenary Resumption

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has formally notified the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, of her scheduled return to the National Assembly on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, following a recent Federal High Court ruling that overturned her suspension from the Senate.

SaharaReporters learnt that the IGP however failed to restore the federal lawmaker's security details and there has been no official response from the Nigerian police.

In a letter titled “Police Acknowledgement - Notification of Resumption and Request for Restoration of Police Protection”, and obtained by SaharaReporters on Tuesday, the senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District had referenced the judgment delivered in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/543/2024. 

The court had declared her suspension by the Senate as excessive and beyond the powers granted under Section 63 of the Nigerian Constitution.

The court had subsequently ordered the Senate to recall her to resume representation of her constituents.

Ahead of her return to legislative duties, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan requested the immediate restoration of her official security detail, citing potential security threats commonly associated with high-profile political matters.

She stated that in light of the security challenges that often accompany high-profile political matters, and the need for adequate protection in the course of her official duties, she respectfully requested the immediate restoration of her official security detail.

The senator emphasised that the safety and protection of elected officials are essential to the smooth execution of constitutional responsibilities, noting that a Certified True Copy of the judgment—particularly Order 12—has been attached to her correspondence with the police authorities.

She expressed confidence in the Inspector General’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of public office holders.

The statement read, "I write to formally notify your esteemed office of the recent judgment delivered by the Federal High Court in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/543/2024, which declared my suspension as excessive and ultra vires the provisions of Section 63 of the Constitution. Consequently, the Court ordered that the Senate should recall me to continue representation of my constituents that sent me to the Senate

"In compliance with the judgment, I am scheduled to resume legislative duties at the National Assembly on Tuesday, 22nd July 2025.
"In light of the security challenges that often accompany high-profile political matters and the need for adequate protection in the course of my official duties, I respectfully request the immediate restoration of my official security detail. This is crucial to ensure my safety as I resume work and continue to carry out my constitutional responsibilities without hindrance.

"For your kind reference, I have attached a Certified True Copy of the judgment of the Federal High Court and do draw your attention, particularly, to Order 12 of the judgment.

"I trust in your usual prompt attention and continued dedication to the rule of law, and I appreciate your support in ensuring the safety and protection of all public office holders, citizens and residents. Please accept the assurances of my highest esteem," she added.