Politics

Senate Maintains Suspension of Kogi Central Senator Pending Court Ruling

The National Assembly has rejected Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s bid to resume legislative duties, insisting her six-month suspension remains in effect until the Court of Appeal delivers a verdict.

In a letter dated September 4, 2025, Acting Clerk Dr. Yahaya Danzaria acknowledged the senator’s notice of her intended return but clarified that her suspension, which began on March 6, 2025, is still sub judice.

“The matter remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded, no administrative action can be taken to facilitate your resumption,” the Senate stated.

Speaking from London, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Victor Giwa, said the senator plans to return to plenary when the Senate reconvenes on September 23.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended following allegations of insubordination after rejecting a change to her designated seat. The Senate’s Ethics Committee also stripped her of aides, office privileges, and salaries.

The senator has linked her suspension to her petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment—a claim dismissed by the Senate. She later challenged her suspension in court and obtained a judgment she says supports her recall.

Despite this, the Senate leadership insists the suspension will remain in force until the six-month period ends. An earlier attempt to return in July was blocked by security personnel amid a protest by her supporters.

Olayinka Babatunde