The Nigerian Senate has acknowledged a Federal High Court ruling that nullified the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan but has yet to take official action. According to Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, the Senate is waiting to receive the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment before reviewing and deciding on the next steps.
The court ruling, delivered on July 4, 2025, declared Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension “unconstitutional and unlawful”. However, the Senate insists that it needs to thoroughly review the judgment and ascertain whether it contains any direct orders nullifying the suspension. Adaramodu emphasized the Senate’s commitment to the rule of law and promised to act in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution once the court’s pronouncements are fully clarified.
Akpoti-Uduaghan has expressed her intention to resume legislative duties in the Senate on Tuesday, despite the ongoing uncertainty. The Senator’s return to the Senate is contingent upon the receipt and review of the CTC by the Senate. Meanwhile, Akpoti-Uduaghan still faces two other legal proceedings in Abuja over allegations of cybercrime and defamation.
The Senate’s decision to await the CTC has sparked interest in the potential implications for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s political career. As the situation unfolds, the Senator’s supporters and critics alike are eagerly awaiting the Senate’s next move. With the court’s ruling, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s future in the Senate hangs in the balance, and her ability to navigate the complex web of Nigerian politics will be put to the test.
