The Senate has denied Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s request to return to her legislative duties, stating that her six-month suspension remains in effect until a final ruling is delivered by the Court of Appeal.
In a letter signed by Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, the Senate acknowledged the senator’s notice that her suspension period ended on September 4, 2025. However, it pointed out that because her case is currently before the Court of Appeal, the matter is considered “sub judice,” meaning it is under judicial consideration and no administrative action can be taken. The letter explicitly states, “The matter remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded, no administrative action can be taken to facilitate your resumption.”
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended on March 6 after the Senate accused her of violating its standing orders. The suspension stripped her of her salary, aides, and office privileges. While a Federal High Court in Abuja initially upheld the suspension, the senator appealed the decision.
Conflicting Statements on Senator’s Return
The Senate’s position is in direct conflict with statements made by the senator’s legal counsel, Victor Giwa. Speaking to Punch, Giwa confirmed that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was prepared to resume her duties later this month when the Senate reconvenes. He stated that the six-month suspension had expired on September 7, 2025, and that legal disputes would not hinder her return.
“Everything will be resolved. Even the court cases will become like an academic exercise,” Giwa said, expressing confidence that the Senate leadership was ready to welcome her back without any obstacles.
This is not the first time the senator has attempted to return. A previous attempt in July led to a standoff with security operatives who blocked her entry into the National Assembly complex, despite the support of a crowd of her supporters. The senator has consistently maintained that her suspension is related to a sexual harassment petition she filed against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a claim the Senate has dismissed.
