Mild tension gripped the National Assembly on Tuesday as senators hesitated to second a motion moved by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan concerning the alleged abuse of Nigerian women in Libyan detention centers.
The lawmaker, representing Kogi Central under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had called for urgent action to repatriate Nigerian women reportedly held in Libyan prisons. She alleged that some detainees were subjected to sexual exploitation by prison officials and, in certain cases, forced to bear children while in custody. Akpoti-Uduaghan urged the Senate to direct the Nigerian Immigration Service to collaborate with Libyan authorities for the safe return of the women.
After she concluded her presentation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for a seconder, a procedural requirement for debate. Initially, no senator—including female lawmakers—rose to support the motion, creating a tense pause in the chamber.
The deadlock ended when Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele stood to second the motion, allowing the Senate to proceed with the debate.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had returned to the Senate earlier this month following a six-month suspension linked to sexual assault allegations she previously made against Senate President Akpabio.
Drama as Senators shun Natasha Akpoti's motion in Senate today pic.twitter.com/7PbY3tGW0B
— Politics Nigeria (@PoliticsNGR) October 14, 2025
