Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Passport Returned by Nigerian Immigration Service
The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has handed back the passport of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following her public complaint about its confiscation during an airport security check on Tuesday. The Kogi Central representative took to social media to denounce the seizure, asserting that officials withheld her travel document without any legal authorization.
Allegations of Political Interference in Travel Restrictions
In a series of videos shared online, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of orchestrating the move to prevent her from traveling. She emphasized her compliance with all court appearances and insisted she posed no flight risk, stating, “You have no right to withhold my passport.” Additionally, she mentioned that President Bola Tinubu had previously instructed that politically motivated charges against her be dropped. As of this report, Akpabio has not publicly addressed these claims.
Delay and Previous Incidents Highlight Concerns Over Due Process
The senator revealed that the passport was withheld for approximately 20 minutes before being returned. She also referenced an earlier episode where her document was only released after intervention by a prominent figure, questioning whether the passport would have been returned without her public outcry. This incident raises questions about the transparency and legality of such actions by immigration authorities.
Legal Framework and Calls for Transparency
The NIS has yet to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the passport’s temporary confiscation. Importantly, there is no evidence of a valid court order restricting Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s travel, which is a legal prerequisite under Nigerian law for any limitation on a citizen’s right to leave or enter the country. Experts and human rights organizations stress the necessity of clear judicial oversight to prevent arbitrary restrictions and ensure respect for individual freedoms.
Broader Implications for Political Rights and Mobility
This episode underscores ongoing concerns about the use of state apparatus to potentially intimidate or hinder political figures. According to recent data from the Nigerian Bar Association, cases involving travel bans without transparent legal backing have increased by 15% in the past year, highlighting a troubling trend. Advocates urge reforms to safeguard citizens’ rights and promote accountability within government agencies.
