JUST IN: National Assembly stops Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming, gives reasons
JUST IN: National Assembly stops Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming, gives reasons
The National Assembly has stopped Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, from resuming her legislative duties, insisting that her suspension remains a matter before the courts.
In a letter dated August 28, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan informed the Clerk to the National Assembly of her plan to return on September 4, which she argued marked the end of her six-month suspension. She referenced a July ruling of the Federal High Court that declared her suspension “excessive and unconstitutional” and ordered her recall.
“I write to formally notify you of my decision to resume my legislative function upon the expiration of the suspension period,” she stated, adding that she was entitled to resume her full duties as senator regardless of the pending appeals at the Court of Appeal.
She also requested immediate access to her office, citing the need to review pending legislative business, attend to committee assignments, and address constituency matters ahead of plenary sessions.
However, in a response dated September 4, Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, rejected her request.
Danzaria explained that the suspension, which began on March 6, 2025, remains the subject of litigation and therefore sub judice.
“Until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption,” the letter read.
He added that the senator would be notified of any decision once the legal process is resolved.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 for alleged gross misconduct following an altercation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a seating arrangement dispute.
