Court Ruling Sparks Showdown as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Insists on Resuming Senate Duties

A constitutional standoff looms at the Nigerian Senate as suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan prepares to defy the chamber and resume plenary duties today, citing a recent Federal High Court ruling as her legal authority.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended in March 2025. However, she announced her intention to return to the Senate floor following a court decision which declared her suspension unconstitutional.

“By the grace of God, I will be at the Senate on the 22nd,” she said during a constituency program. “The court has made a decision, and I am bound to act on it.”

Her legal counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) West Idahosa, supported the move, asserting that the judgment carries sufficient legal weight for her to resume legislative activities.

“The court made it clear she remains a senator and should go back to work. Attendance at plenary is a legislative function, and the judgment protects her right to perform it,” Idahosa explained.

However, the Senate leadership has adopted a contrary interpretation. In a letter dated July 14 and addressed to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team, the National Assembly maintained that the judgment was advisory and did not constitute a binding directive.

“The judgment merely advised the Senate to consider recalling the senator. There is no enforceable order compelling such action,” stated Charles Yoila, Director of Litigation and Counselling in the Clerk’s office.

Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu further emphasized that the Certified True Copy of the ruling contained no mandatory order. “The judgment does not expressly direct her reinstatement,” he insisted.

The senator’s legal team, however, points to Section 318 of the Nigerian Constitution, arguing that the court’s ruling effectively nullifies the suspension and restores her legislative rights.

Observers are closely watching how today’s events will unfold. With Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expected at the National Assembly, tensions are running high over whether the Senate will allow her access to the chamber.

The clash pits judicial interpretation against legislative authority and may set a significant precedent for the independence and limits of both arms of government.