THE National Assembly has explained why suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, cannot resume her legislative duties despite claiming that her six-month suspension has elapsed.
In a letter dated September 4, 2025, addressed to the senator sighted by News Point Nigeria, the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, stated that the suspension matter remains before the Court of Appeal and is therefore sub judice.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier written to the Clerk notifying him of her intention to return to plenary on September 4, insisting that her suspension, which began in February, had expired.
But in response, Danzaria made it clear that no administrative step can be taken until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension.
Quoting from the correspondence, he wrote: “I am directed to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, notifying this office of your intention to resume sitting and other legislative duties in the Senate on the 4th of September, 2025, which you claim is the date of expiration of the six-month suspension imposed on you by the Senate.
I am further directed to inform you that your suspension was with effect from Thursday, 6th March, 2025, and draw your attention to the fact that the subject matter of your suspension is presently before the Court of Appeal.
The matter therefore remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in the light of the Court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption.
You will be duly notified of the Senate’s decision on the matter as soon as it is resolved.”
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate in March 2025 over alleged misconduct, including her refusal to comply with the chamber’s seating arrangement during plenary.
Her suspension triggered debates on legislative discipline, gender equity, and political rivalry in the upper chamber. Critics argued that the measure was politically motivated, while Senate leadership insisted it was a matter of order and decorum.
With the case now before the Court of Appeal, legal experts say her return depends on the court’s ruling and the Senate’s subsequent decision. Until then, the lawmaker, who represents Kogi Central, remains locked out of legislative business.
For now, the Senate has assured that she will be “duly notified” once the matter is resolved, leaving the future of her political role in limbo.
