Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Set for Dramatic Return to Senate Amid Legal Storm
There’s growing tension at the National Assembly as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the embattled lawmaker representing Kogi Central, insists on resuming plenary today, July 22, 2025, despite her ongoing suspension.
Background: Why Was Senator Natasha Suspended?
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 for what the Senate described as “gross misconduct.” Details surrounding the suspension include allegations of inappropriate conduct and contempt against the Senate, particularly related to a controversial social media post.
As part of the ruling, she was fined ₦5 million and directed to issue a public apology across two national dailies and her social media platforms. According to Senate sources, these conditions have not yet been met.
Senator Natasha Says the Law Is On Her Side
Speaking at a recent constituency event, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan asserted that a Federal High Court ruling had affirmed her right to return to the Red Chamber.
“I have written to the Senate again, telling them that I’m resuming on the 22nd, which is on Tuesday, by the special grace of God,” she said.
She insists the judgment makes it clear that the Senate overstepped its constitutional powers by suspending her for 180 days. Her legal counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) West Idahosa, backed this stance, stating that the judgment effectively ended the suspension and affirmed her status as an active senator.
“She is still a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the judgment has come to an end,” Idahosa emphasized.
Senate Fires Back: "No Binding Court Order"
However, the Senate leadership strongly disagrees. In a press statement released by Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, the Senate maintained its position: no existing court order mandates her reinstatement.
“There is no subsisting court order mandating the Senate to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before the expiration of her suspension,” Adaramodu stated.
He clarified that the court only suggested the Senate review the suspension and possibly amend its standing rules—far from a directive to lift the disciplinary action.
Adaramodu also warned that any attempt by Akpoti-Uduaghan to enter the chamber could be deemed disruptive:
“She is respectfully advised to stay away from the Senate chambers and allow due process to run its full course.”
What’s Next? Possible Scenarios
With both sides refusing to back down, political analysts say today could witness an unprecedented showdown in Nigeria’s legislative history. Will security personnel bar her from entering? Will other lawmakers support her cause? These are the questions now dominating political circles.
Meanwhile, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters argue that her suspension was politically motivated and an overreach of legislative power. Her attempt to resume may spark wider debates on legislative accountability, abuse of power, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Final Thoughts
As the drama unfolds at the National Assembly, one thing is clear today’s session could become a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Whether Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan gains access to the Senate floor or is blocked, the outcome will likely have ripple effects across Nigeria’s political landscape.
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