Suspended lawmaker Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has declared her intention to resume plenary at the National Assembly today, July 22, 2025, defying Senate warnings that her six-month suspension remains in force.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, was suspended in March 2025 over alleged misconduct. However, citing a recent Federal High Court ruling, she insists the Senate’s action is excessive and unconstitutional.
“I will be there… the court did decide on that,” she said during a weekend training programme in Okene. “They argue it’s not an order, but it is a decision.”
⚖️ Court Ruling vs. Senate Position
A judgment by Justice Binta Nyako held that the six-month suspension was “excessive” and violated her constituents’ rights. However, the ruling stopped short of issuing a mandatory recall order, instead advising the Senate to consider amending its Standing Orders.
The Senate, however, remains firm. Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu clarified on Sunday that:
- No binding court order mandates her immediate return.
- The court only offered a non-binding advisory opinion.
- The Senate acted within the law in imposing disciplinary measures.
He also emphasized that Akpoti-Uduaghan must fulfill the court-ordered sanctions, including:
- Paying a ₦5 million fine.
- Publishing a public apology in two national dailies and on social media.
🧑⚖️ Legal Pushback from Her Camp
Her lawyer, West Idahosa (SAN), maintains that the court’s decision empowers her to resume:
“When the court says the plaintiff should go back, you mean she should go back to work… that is more or less an order.”
He also called the Senate’s disciplinary action an overreach of constitutional powers.
⛔ Senate Threatens Consequences
Adaramodu warned that any attempt by Senator Natasha to force her way into the chamber “under false pretext” will be viewed as disruptive conduct.
“Until then, she is respectfully advised to stay away from the Senate chambers and allow due process to run its full course,” he said.
⚠️ What’s at Stake?
This standoff highlights growing tensions between the legislative and judicial branches over disciplinary oversight and the limits of parliamentary immunity.
With the Senate waiting to receive the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the ruling, and Akpoti-Uduaghan determined to return, today’s plenary could witness a dramatic political showdown.
