The National Assembly has formally rejected the Senator representing Kogi Central, Barr. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s request to resume legislative duties.
In a letter dated September 4, 2025, and signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly (Ag. CNA), Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, the parliament acknowledged Akpoti-Uduaghan’s notification of her intention to return to the chamber on the same date, which she claimed marked the end of her suspension.
He explained that her six-month suspension remains in force until the Court of Appeal delivers its judgment on the matter.
The National Assembly management clarified that her suspension formally took effect from March 6, 2025, stressing that the case remains sub judice and therefore prevents her reinstatement at this time.
“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,” the letter read.
It further assured that the embattled lawmaker would be duly notified of the Senate’s final decision once the court delivers its ruling.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, was suspended by the Senate in March 2025 over alleged misconduct following a heated exchange with Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary.
The dispute reportedly stemmed from disagreements over seating arrangements in the Red Chamber.
Following her suspension, the lawmaker challenged the Senate’s decision at the Federal High Court, Abuja, which ruled in favour of the Senate. Dissatisfied, she proceeded to the appellate court to seek redress.
