The senator, who was suspended for six months by the Senate, had vowed to resume legislative duties on Tuesday, citing a court order reinstating her. However, the Senate leadership maintains that there is no binding order requiring her immediate reinstatement.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was forced to trek to the National Assembly complex after being blocked by security operatives at the first gate. She was accompanied by Yesufu and several human rights advocates in a show of solidarity.
The situation has sparked tension, with the Senate leadership and Akpoti-Uduaghan locked in a standoff. The senator's suspension was a result of allegations of breaching Senate rules, including claims of improper seat conduct and accusations of sexual misconduct against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The drama unfolded despite a July ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, which declared Akpoti-Uduaghan's suspension unconstitutional and called for her reinstatement.