The National Assembly has turned down an attempt by the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to resume legislative duties, insisting that her six-month suspension is still in effect. The leadership of the assembly maintained that her sanction remains valid pending the determination of a case currently before the Court of Appeal.
In a letter addressed to the senator and dated September 4, 2025, the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, acknowledged receipt of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s notification of her intention to return to the Red Chamber. The senator had informed the assembly that her suspension period, which she claimed commenced in March, had lapsed on September 4, thereby entitling her to resume duties.
However, the National Assembly disagreed with her position. It clarified that her suspension officially began on March 6, 2025, following disciplinary proceedings by the Senate. Consequently, the assembly maintained that the issue is not only unresolved but also falls within the jurisdiction of the judiciary since the senator had challenged the suspension in court.
“The matter is subjudice and remains before the Court of Appeal,” the letter stated, underscoring that the National Assembly would not preempt the judicial process by lifting the suspension or allowing her to return until the court delivers its judgment. This position, the leadership explained, is consistent with legislative practice and the principle of separation of powers.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension earlier in the year had sparked wide public debate, with some stakeholders describing it as politically motivated and an infringement on her mandate to represent the people of Kogi Central. Others within the assembly, however, defended the action, insisting it was in line with disciplinary measures available to the legislature to enforce order among its members.
Since then, the senator has continued to pursue legal redress, arguing that her suspension was unconstitutional and violated her rights as an elected representative. The Court of Appeal is expected to deliver a ruling on the matter in the coming weeks, a decision that will determine whether she can return to her seat or remain barred from legislative activities.
Until then, the National Assembly’s position is that the suspension remains binding. With this latest development, the political and legal battle between the senator and the institution appears set to continue, keeping her constituents in a state of uncertainty over their representation at the federal level.
