Natasha Akpoti Senate suspension ruled excessive by court, as she vows return to Senate despite resistance, citing constitutional rights of her constituents
Natasha Akpoti Senate suspension has become a national flashpoint as the embattled lawmaker vows to defy the Senate’s reluctance and resume her legislative duties.
Also read: Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Contempt Ruling Leads to ₦5m Court Penalty
Her bold declaration followed a court ruling that described her six-month suspension as excessive and unconstitutional.
Speaking to supporters in a viral video on Monday, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan affirmed her intention to return to the Red Chamber.
“I thank you for your support. I’m glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God,” she said.
The Federal High Court in Abuja, in a judgment delivered on July 4, declared the suspension void.
Justice Binta Nyako ruled that the action violated the rights of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents, who were denied representation for half of the legislative year.
According to her, suspending a senator for six months effectively disenfranchises voters and undermines democratic values.
Although the ruling favoured the senator, it was not without penalty. The court fined her ₦5 million for contempt over a satirical Facebook post mocking Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Justice Nyako criticised the post as a breach of an existing gag order and ordered a formal public apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page within seven days.
The Senate, however, is yet to recognise the ruling. In a statement released on Sunday, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, confirmed that the Senate had not received the Certified True Copy of the judgment.
“The Senate acknowledges the judgment but has not been officially served the Certified True Copy,” he stated.
Adaramodu added that a thorough legal review would follow once the full judgment is obtained. “Until then, no party can enforce any perceived order or relief.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s troubles began in March when she was suspended for alleging sexual harassment against Senate President Akpabio during a heated plenary session.
Her suspension also came with the withdrawal of her salary, benefits, and security detail.
Despite the punitive measures, she insisted that her commitment to the people of Kogi Central never wavered. Over the weekend, she launched two smart market projects aimed at boosting grassroots commerce.
Located in Okene and Okehi Local Government Areas, the markets are designed to support local traders, especially women.
“Despite the suspension, I never stopped working for my people,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said at the event. “Service to the people goes beyond politics.”
Each smart market will feature 80 shops, including 40 lock-up units and 40 open stalls. The facilities will be equipped with solar electricity, boreholes, modern sanitation, power outlets, loading bays, and streetlights to ensure safety and efficiency.
“These projects are designed to improve local economies and serve as symbols of true representation,” she added.
The initiative is scheduled for completion and commissioning in November to mark her second year in office.
Traditional rulers, women groups, and youth organisations attended the event to show support.
Many commended her for continuing constituency development work despite her suspension.
The smart markets are part of a broader plan that includes roadworks, water projects, and education support programmes.
Akpoti-Uduaghan reaffirmed her commitment to non-partisan representation. “Politics happens during elections. After that, performance is what counts,” she said.
Also read: Top North-Central Politician: Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
As legal and political tensions mount, the fate of her return to the Senate now hinges on formal compliance with the court order and the Senate’s willingness to act. What remains clear is that Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is not backing down.
