Senate Bars Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from Resuming, Cites Ongoing Court Case

In a letter dated 4 September and signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, the Senate stated that the matter of her suspension is currently before the Court of Appeal and therefore remains sub judice. Until the court delivers a ruling and the Senate formally reviews its position, Akpoti-Uduaghan will not be allowed to return to her seat.

“I am directed to acknowledge the receipt of your letter notifying this office of your intention to resume sitting and other legislative duties in the Senate on the 4th of September, 2025, which you claim is the date of expiration of the 6 months suspension imposed on you by the Senate.

“I am further directed to inform you that your suspension was with effect from Thursday, 6th March 2025 and draw your attention to the fact that the subject matter of your suspension is presently before the Court of Appeal. The matter therefore remains subjudice, and until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in the light of the Court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption. You will be duly notified of the Senate’s decision on the matter as soon as it is resolved,” the letter reads.”

Mr. Danzaria confirmed the authenticity of the letter to PREMIUM TIMES, saying he signed it on behalf of the National Assembly.

Recall that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, was suspended on 6 March following the adoption of recommendations by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions.

The committee accused her of misconduct during a plenary session on 20 February, including defying the Senate’s sitting arrangements.

As part of the disciplinary actions, the Senate withdrew her security details, locked her office, suspended her salary and allowances, and barred her from entering the National Assembly premises.

While the Senate had indicated she could be recalled earlier if she tendered a written apology, the Senator instead chose to challenge the suspension in court.