Senate Blocks Senator Natasha’s Resumption Despite Court Ruling Over Suspension

The Nigerian Senate has declined Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s request to resume her legislative duties, citing the absence of a direct court order compelling her reinstatement despite a Federal High Court ruling declaring her suspension unconstitutional.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, suspended in March 2025 over allegations of misconduct, had sought to return to the Senate following a judgment by Justice Binta Nyako, who described the six-month suspension as “excessive” and a violation of her constitutional rights.

Her legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Michael Numa, wrote to the Clerk of the National Assembly on July 11, notifying them of her intention to resume duty on July 15.

However, in a response dated July 14 and signed by Director of Litigation, Charles Yoila, the Senate stated that the court’s ruling contained no binding directive compelling it, the Senate President, or the National Assembly to reinstate the lawmaker.

The Senate emphasized that the court merely issued a declaratory judgment, suggesting that the chamber has the discretion to recall Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan if it chooses.

“You may wish to advise your client to await the Senate’s action in exercising its powers of recall,” the Senate noted in its response.

Senate spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, further reinforced this stance, stating that the Certified True Copy of the judgment lacked any enforceable order for reinstatement.

Meanwhile, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal counsel argued that the judgment is binding under Section 318 of the Constitution and called for immediate compliance, insisting her rights as an elected representative must be respected.

As it stands, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to the red chambers remains uncertain, pending further action by the Senate.