Senate Blocks Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Attempted Return, Cites Pending Appeal Case

The National Assembly has declined Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s request to resume duties, insisting her six-month suspension remains in force pending a Court of Appeal ruling.

In a letter dated September 4, 2025, Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, acknowledged receiving the lawmaker’s notification of intent to return but clarified that her suspension, which began on March 6, is still active and subject to judicial review.

The Senate stressed that no administrative action would be taken until the court delivers its verdict, adding that her suspension would only be reconsidered afterward.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, through her lawyer Victor Giwa, had announced plans to rejoin plenary when the Senate reconvenes on September 23, after what she considered the expiration of her suspension. The senator, currently in London on vacation, maintains that the disciplinary action was politically motivated and linked to her petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment—a claim the Senate dismissed.

Her suspension, enforced in March for alleged insubordination over a seating dispute, also stripped her of aides, office privileges, and salaries. Despite a court ruling she claims supports her reinstatement, the Senate leadership has stood firm, previously blocking her attempted return in July with security operatives deployed to prevent entry.