By Fatima Mukhtar
The National Assembly has announced new security restrictions ahead of its resumption on October 7, 2025, following its adjournment in July.
According to a memo issued by the Office of the Serjeant-at-Arms, signed by Brigadier-General Etido Ekpo (retd), access to certain strategic areas of the Senate wing, including the Senate Chamber, the main gangway, and the corridor leading to the Senate President’s office, will now be restricted.
The directive specifically bars aides and personal assistants from entering the corridor beyond the Senate President’s office. Lawmakers have been instructed to inform their staff about the changes.
The move comes just days after Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan regained access to her sealed office (Room 205, Senate wing) following months of suspension. Her ordeal had earlier sparked tension, with security operatives physically denying her entry despite a court ruling in her favour.
This is not the first time the National Assembly has adopted stricter measures. In previous years, security was tightened during staff protests over unpaid salaries and when the President addressed joint sessions.
Observers believe the latest restrictions could be linked to growing internal tensions and the leadership’s bid to maintain tighter control as lawmakers prepare to reconvene.
Source: Daily Trust, The Guardian, Sahara Reporters
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