By our reporter
The Nigerian Senate has declined Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s request to resume her legislative duties, maintaining that her six-month suspension remains in effect until the Court of Appeal delivers its judgment on the matter.
In an official letter signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, the Senate acknowledged receipt of the senator’s notification of her intention to return to plenary on September 4, 2025. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan argued that the suspension, which began on March 6, 2025, had run its full course and should therefore be lifted.
However, the Senate firmly rejected her position, stating that the issue is still before the Court of Appeal and cannot be addressed administratively until the legal process is concluded. The Senate emphasized that the matter remains sub judice and that no action would be taken to facilitate her return while the court case is ongoing.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, was suspended in March for allegedly violating Senate standing orders. Although the specifics of the alleged breaches have not been made public, the Senate claimed her actions were inconsistent with the rules and decorum expected in the chamber.
Following the suspension, she approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to challenge the decision. The court, however, upheld the Senate’s authority to suspend her, prompting her to file an appeal at the Court of Appeal in an effort to overturn the ruling.
Despite her argument that the six-month suspension period has expired, the Senate has maintained that her reinstatement cannot proceed until the Court of Appeal delivers its verdict. According to sources familiar with the matter, the Senate leadership is not inclined to revisit the case until the judiciary provides clear direction.
This development raises legal and constitutional concerns regarding the rights of elected officials and the scope of parliamentary disciplinary powers. While the Senate justifies its decision as a matter of legal prudence, critics may see it as an attempt to delay or undermine her return to office.
If the Court of Appeal rules in her favor, the Senate could be compelled to reinstate her immediately. If not, her suspension would be considered lawful and complete. The outcome of this case may also influence how future legislative suspensions are handled, particularly in relation to ongoing court proceedings.
Until the legal process is concluded, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan remains barred from participating in Senate activities. The final judgment from the Court of Appeal will determine whether her return to the red chamber is delayed indefinitely or expedited in accordance with the law.
