Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan blocked from resuming Senate duties as N’Assembly insists her suspension remains pending court ruling
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan blocked by the National Assembly from resuming legislative duties, as her six-month suspension remains in force pending a decision by the Court of Appeal.
Also read: Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Misled Public on Suspension, Says Akpabio’s Aide
The Senate’s position was made clear in a formal letter dated September 4, 2025, and signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria.
The letter was in response to the senator’s prior notification of her intended return on the same date, which she claimed marked the end of her suspension period.
However, the Senate disagreed with her timeline and insisted that no action could be taken while the case remained sub judice.
“The matter remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded, no administrative action can be taken to facilitate your resumption,” the letter stated.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended on March 6, 2025, over alleged insubordination during plenary, particularly over a dispute regarding her assigned seat.
The suspension was based on recommendations from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
As part of the sanctions, she was stripped of official aides, access to her office, and salaries.
In response, the lawmaker challenged the Senate’s decision in court, claiming her suspension was retaliation for a petition she filed against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of sexual harassment—an allegation the Senate has publicly dismissed.
Her legal counsel, Victor Giwa, revealed to the media that Akpoti-Uduaghan had secured a favorable court judgment and intended to return to the Senate on September 23, when the chamber reconvenes.
“She will return after completing her six-month suspension,” Giwa said, adding that the senator was currently on vacation in London.
However, the Senate insists that no such resumption will occur until the Court of Appeal makes a ruling.
The Assembly maintains that its internal disciplinary process cannot be overridden by a unilateral interpretation of the law by any member.
This isn’t the first time tensions have flared.
Also read: Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Defies Suspension, Returns to Senate Amid Tight Security
In July 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted to enter the National Assembly complex but was barred by security personnel, despite support from a crowd of constituents who gathered to show solidarity.
