By our reporter
The senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has threatened to take legal action against the Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA), Kamorudeen Ogunlana, if she is not allowed to resume her legislative duties by Monday.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended from the Senate on March 6, 2025, following allegations of misconduct during plenary. She contends that the six-month suspension has now lapsed, and therefore, she is entitled to resume her duties without further delay. The senator has formally notified the National Assembly of her intent to return to plenary, stating that the suspension officially ended on September 5, 2025.
However, her resumption request was denied by the Acting Clerk, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, who argued that the matter remains before the Court of Appeal. He maintained that the issue is still sub judice, meaning it is under judicial consideration, and as such, no administrative steps can be taken until the court concludes its proceedings.
In response, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has described the Clerk’s stance as a violation of her rights and an unjustified obstruction. She insists that the expiration of the suspension means she is fully reinstated and ready to continue representing her constituents.
She warned that if she is not allowed to resume by the given deadline, she will initiate legal proceedings to compel the National Assembly to comply with constitutional provisions regarding her position as an elected lawmaker.
Her position has been backed by various civil society and legal advocacy groups. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) recently urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio to reinstate the senator, describing the ongoing suspension as a breach of democratic principles and a denial of fair representation to the people of Kogi Central.
The legal community remains divided over the issue. While some argue that the court case justifies a temporary delay, others maintain that the National Assembly has no authority to extend the suspension beyond the six-month term without initiating new disciplinary measures.
The case is rapidly gaining national attention and may set a significant precedent concerning legislative powers, due process, and the rights of elected officials. With Monday as the senator’s stated deadline, the coming days could witness a pivotal legal and political confrontation between the legislative leadership and one of its own members.
