Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, is poised to resume her legislative duties at the National Assembly later this month, following the completion of a controversial six-month suspension. Her lawyer, Victor Giwa, confirmed the development, stating that the senator is ready to return to plenary sessions when the Senate reconvenes on September 23, 2025.
The suspension, imposed on March 6, 2025, stemmed from allegations of gross misconduct and violation of Senate rules, including insubordination after Akpoti-Uduaghan protested a change in her designated seat during a plenary session. The Senate’s decision, upheld by a majority vote, barred her from legislative activities, the National Assembly complex, and access to official resources, with her salary and security details withdrawn. The move sparked widespread debate, particularly as Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed the suspension was retaliation for her petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, a claim he has denied.
A significant turning point came on July 4, 2025, when Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled the suspension “excessive” and unconstitutional, arguing it denied Kogi Central constituents their right to representation. The court criticized provisions in the Senate Standing Rules and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, stating they overreached constitutional limits. Despite this, Akpoti-Uduaghan was physically blocked from re-entering the National Assembly on July 22, 2025, prompting further legal action and public outcry.
Speaking to The PUNCH, Giwa revealed that Akpoti-Uduaghan, currently on vacation in London, has made arrangements to resume her term without obstruction. “We have been told that even the leadership of the Senate is ready to welcome her. There is no obstacle at all,” he assured, signaling a potential easing of tensions with the Senate leadership.
The senator’s suspension had broader implications, leaving the NGO and Diaspora Committee she chaired in limbo and raising concerns about women’s representation in the 109-member Senate, where only four are female. Her return is seen as a victory for her constituents and a test of the Senate’s willingness to respect judicial oversight.
Public reactions on platforms like X have been mixed, with supporters celebrating her resilience and critics questioning the circumstances of her suspension. As Akpoti-Uduaghan prepares to re-enter the Senate, all eyes are on how her reintegration will unfold, particularly given her ongoing disputes with Senate President Akpabio and the precedent set by the court’s ruling.