Senate Warns Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Against Premature Return to Chamber

The Nigerian Senate has issued a firm caution to suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging her to refrain from forcefully resuming legislative duties until her suspension has formally expired. This warning comes amid reports suggesting that the Kogi Central Senator intended to return to the Senate on Tuesday, allegedly backed by a ruling from the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The controversy stems from Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s interpretation of a recent court judgment delivered by Justice Binta Nyako, which she claims grants her the legal right to resume office. However, the Senate insists that no such enforceable directive was issued by the court, and any attempt to re-enter the chamber without official clearance would be deemed disruptive and unlawful.

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Senate Clarifies Court’s Position on Suspension Dispute

In a detailed statement released in Abuja on Sunday, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, categorically refuted claims that the Senate is under any judicial order to reinstate Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.

“The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria wishes to reaffirm, for the third time, that there is no subsisting court order mandating the Senate to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before the expiration of her suspension,” Adaramodu said.

He added that the Federal High Court only issued a non-binding advisory, suggesting that the Senate consider amending its Standing Orders and reviewing the disciplinary action taken against the lawmaker. Importantly, Adaramodu emphasized that the court upheld the Senate’s authority to discipline its members and found no breach of constitutional or legal process in the suspension decision.

Court Findings and Sanctions Against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan

According to the Senate’s statement, the same judgment that Akpoti-Uduaghan is referencing actually imposed sanctions against her for contempt of court. The lawmaker was reportedly ordered to pay a ₦5 million fine to the Federal Government and issue a public apology in two national newspapers and on her verified Facebook page—conditions she has yet to meet.

“It is therefore surprising and legally untenable that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, while on appeal and having filed a motion for stay against the valid and binding orders made against her, is attempting to act upon an imaginary order of recall that does not exist,” the Senate said.

The Senate warned that any attempt by the suspended senator to physically return to the chamber without official authorization would not only violate legislative protocols but could also spark unnecessary political tension.

Maintaining Legislative Order and Due Process

The leadership of the Senate emphasized that it remains committed to upholding the principles of due process and the rule of law. The institution is carefully reviewing the court’s advisory and will determine the appropriate course of action through its internal processes.

“The Senate will, at the appropriate time, consider the advisory opinion of the court on both amending the Standing Orders of the Senate, her recall, and communicate the same thereof to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan,” the statement read.

Until then, the Senate has respectfully but firmly advised the Kogi Central Senator to avoid any disruptive action, particularly any move to “storm the Senate next Tuesday under a false pretext.”

Legal and Political Implications

This unfolding episode has reignited conversations around the balance between legislative autonomy and judicial oversight. While courts can interpret constitutional provisions and advise on procedural fairness, enforcement of internal legislative discipline largely remains the prerogative of the Senate.

Analysts believe the confrontation between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate could set significant precedents for future legislative-judicial interactions. The senator’s decision to appeal the court’s findings while simultaneously attempting to act on a non-existent reinstatement order has further complicated an already delicate situation.

As the 10th National Assembly continues to navigate issues of decorum, discipline, and internal governance, the Senate’s firm stance underscores its resolve to protect institutional order and preserve the sanctity of its procedures.

For now, all eyes are on the Senate chamber this week, as Nigerians watch to see whether Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan will comply with the directive or escalate the confrontation.