BY JOHN DANJUMA

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was briefly delayed at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Thursday morning while attempting to board a flight to the United Kingdom.

The senator, who represents Kogi Central, was reportedly stopped by immigration officers and informed that her name had been placed on a watch list, allegedly at the request of the leadership of the National Assembly.

A family member familiar with the situation said the lawmaker was travelling with her husband to attend her stepson’s graduation in the UK when officials at the departure terminal intercepted her.

“She was told that the leadership of the National Assembly requested that she be considered a flight risk and placed on a watch list,” the source disclosed.

“We’re wondering why they treated her that way, especially since there’s no court order restricting her movement, and she has never missed any court appearances.”

The incident caused a stir among travellers and airport staff.

This development comes amid a deepening rift between the senator and the leadership of the Senate. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is currently challenging her suspension from the upper chamber following her rejection of a seat reassignment during plenary.

She later accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, and the federal government has initiated two criminal defamation proceedings against her.

Eyewitnesses said the senator protested the restriction and was seen making multiple urgent phone calls.

“Her passport was eventually stamped, and she was allowed to proceed,” one witness said.

When contacted shortly before take off, Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed the incident, saying only: “The aircraft is about to take off.”