The National Assembly has formally rejected the Senator representing
Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s plan to resume legislative
duties.
The assembly stated that her six-month suspension remains in force
pending the outcome of a Court of Appeal case instituted against the
Senate by Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a letter issued by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya
Danzaria, dated September 4, 2025, the Senate acknowledged Akpoti-
Uduaghan’s notification of her intended return on September 4, the date
she claimed marked the end of her suspension.
However, the Senate clarified that her suspension took effect on March
6, 2025, and emphasised that the matter is still subjudice.
The Senate insisted that no administrative action can be taken until the
Court of Appeal delivers a verdict. The letter stated that the Senate
would only review her suspension after the court’s pronouncement.
Recall that Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 following a
Senate resolution.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, following
allegations of insubordination after she rejected a change of her
designated seat during plenary. The suspension, based on
recommendations of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and
Public Petitions, also stripped her of aides, office privileges, and
salaries.
Chidozie Chima | September 20, 2024
