Senate Rejects Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Bid to Resume Legislative Duties

The Nigerian Senate has rejected Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s request to return to her legislative seat, insisting that her six-month suspension remains in force until the Court of Appeal rules on her case.

In a letter signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, the Senate acknowledged receiving the senator’s notice of resumption dated September 4, 2025, in which she informed lawmakers of her intention to resume plenary after completing what she described as her suspension period. However, the chamber maintained that her suspension, which began on March 6, 2025, is still subject to judicial proceedings.

“The matter remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded, no administrative action can be taken to facilitate your resumption,” the letter read in part.

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Background to Natasha’s Suspension

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended in March following allegations that she breached Senate standing orders. The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions recommended her suspension, accusing her of insubordination after she rejected a designated seat during plenary.

The penalty not only barred her from participating in legislative activities but also stripped her of official aides, salaries, and access to office facilities.

While the Federal High Court in Abuja upheld the suspension, the lawmaker immediately filed an appeal, arguing that the action against her was politically motivated. According to her, the Senate’s decision was a retaliatory measure linked to her petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, a claim the chamber dismissed.

Despite the legal setback, Natasha maintained that she had a valid case against her suspension and vowed to continue her fight through the courts.

Failed Attempt at Recall

In July, the embattled lawmaker attempted to force her way back into the National Assembly complex but was blocked by security operatives. The incident triggered a standoff, with a crowd of her supporters rallying outside the gates in protest.

Natasha argued at the time that the court ruling she obtained had effectively nullified her suspension, giving her the right to resume legislative duties. However, the Senate leadership dismissed her claims, insisting that the six-month suspension would run its full course.

Conflicting Signals Over Her Return

Despite the Senate’s rejection of her resumption notice, Natasha’s legal team maintains that she will resume plenary later this month. Her lawyer, Victor Giwa, confirmed in an interview that the lawmaker is currently on vacation in London but is prepared to return once the Senate reconvenes on September 23, 2025.

“Actually, she’s ready to resume her term. She’s in London. Everything is in place, and the six months have expired. The only thing left is her resumption,” Giwa said.

According to him, the Senate leadership has given assurances that Natasha will be welcomed back once the chamber resumes from recess. “We have been told that even the leadership of the Senate is ready to welcome her. So that’s the situation at the moment. There is no obstacle at all,” he added.

The lawyer further argued that with the expiration of the suspension on Saturday, September 7, pending court disputes would not obstruct her return. “Everything will be resolved. Even the court cases will become like an academic exercise,” he insisted.

The Senate’s Position

However, the Senate’s official stance, as reflected in Danzaria’s letter, directly contradicts Giwa’s claims. The lawmakers insist that the matter cannot be treated as an administrative issue since it is already before the Court of Appeal.

By labeling the matter “sub judice,” the Senate leadership suggests that any move to facilitate Natasha’s resumption would amount to undermining judicial authority. This position effectively means that her suspension could remain in force until the appellate court delivers a ruling, regardless of the timeline of the original six-month penalty.

Implications for Kogi Central Representation

The ongoing standoff has left constituents of Kogi Central underrepresented in the Senate for half a year. Political observers note that if the appeal drags on, Natasha’s absence may extend beyond the suspension period, raising questions about the balance between parliamentary discipline and democratic representation.

Some civil society groups have also weighed in, warning that prolonged exclusion of elected lawmakers undermines the constitutional rights of their constituents.

A Battle Yet to End

The controversy surrounding Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan highlights the growing tension between Nigeria’s legislative institutions and the judiciary over disciplinary measures against lawmakers. While the Senate insists on protecting its internal rules, critics argue that suspensions often serve as tools of political vendetta.

For Natasha, the weeks ahead will be decisive. If the Senate holds firmly to its position, she may be forced to await the Court of Appeal’s ruling before returning to plenary. On the other hand, her legal team insists that her comeback is inevitable when lawmakers reconvene later this month.

Whether the Senate will shift its stance or dig in further remains to be seen. For now, Kogi Central constituents remain caught in the middle of a political and legal battle that has left their representation hanging in uncertainty.