Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was briefly detained by immigration officials at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Thursday, July 24, 2025, while attempting to board a flight to the United Kingdom.
She was traveling with her husband to attend her stepson’s graduation ceremony.
Immigration officers stopped Senator Natasha, citing a watch list restriction allegedly at the request of the National Assembly leadership, labeling her a “flight risk”.
She protested the restriction, made urgent phone calls to senior immigration and government officials, and was eventually cleared to board her British Airways flight after nearly an hour.
There was no court order restricting her movement, and she hasn’t missed any court appearances, sparking concerns over the treatment .
The incident comes amid growing tensions between Senator Natasha and the Senate leadership, following her suspension and allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which he denies.
The Federal Government has filed two criminal defamation cases against Senator Natasha over her allegations against Akpabio.
Her family expressed hope that she wouldn’t face similar issues upon her return to Nigeria in two weeks .
Senator Natasha confirmed the incident but declined to provide details, stating the aircraft was about to take off.
The Nigeria Immigration Service spokesperson, Akinsola Akinlabi, said he would provide details once he obtains more information on the incident
The incident has sparked concerns over potential political intimidation and retaliation, given the ongoing confrontation between Senator Natasha and the Senate leadership .
