The National Assembly has barred Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, from resuming her legislative duties, insisting that her suspension remains the subject of an unresolved court case.
In a letter dated August 28, 2025, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan formally notified the Clerk of the National Assembly of her intention to return to plenary on September 4—a date she argued marked the expiration of her six-month suspension.
She reminded the leadership that the Federal High Court, in July, declared her suspension “excessive and unconstitutional” and ordered her recall.
“I write to formally notify you of my decision to resume legislative duties upon the expiration of the suspension period,” she stated, stressing that her return would not prejudice the ongoing appeals before the Court of Appeal.
Akpoti-Uduaghan also demanded access to her Senate office, emphasizing the need to review pending bills, catch up on committee work, address constituency issues, and prepare adequately for plenary sessions.
But in a reply dated September 4, 2025, Acting Clerk of the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, rejected her request.
Danzaria explained that since the suspension—which took effect on March 6—is still being challenged in court, the matter remains sub judice. He added that no administrative action can authorize her return until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reconsiders the matter.
“The matter therefore remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in the light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption,” the Clerk wrote.
He assured her that she would be duly informed once the Senate reaches a decision.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension followed a heated altercation on March 6 during plenary, when a dispute over seating arrangements with Senate President Godswill Akpabio escalated into accusations of gross misconduct, ultimately leading to her suspension.
About the Author
