Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central recently claimed that her international passport was withheld at an airport, alleging interference aimed at preventing her from leaving the country. In a Facebook Live video, the senator appeared visibly frustrated as she confronted immigration officials, stating that her passport had been held for over 20 minutes. She questioned the authority of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, suggesting he had instructed officials to block her exit.

However, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) swiftly responded, categorically denying any involvement of the Senate President or any external directive in the matter. The agency clarified that the brief delay was part of standard security and documentation checks and emphasized that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was not barred from travel.

The incident reignites public discussions on the relationship between lawmakers and security agencies in Nigeria, highlighting the need for clarity and due process in managing travel documentation for elected officials. No formal investigation has been launched, and both parties have yet to issue further statements beyond their initial comments.