Akpabio’s Aide Accuses Senator Natasha of Misleading Public Over Suspension Ruling

Mr. Kenny Okolugbo, a senior aide to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has shed new light on the controversy surrounding suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, accusing her of misrepresenting the legal status of her suspension.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has attempted to resume plenary twice in recent weeks, claims that a ruling by the Abuja Federal High Court nullified her six-month suspension from the Senate. However, Okolugbo argues that her own filings before the Appeal Court contradict that claim.

In a statement shared on Monday, Okolugbo referenced Ground 23 of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s appeal in the case Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan v. Clerk of the National Assembly & Others, where she faults the trial judge for not expressly setting aside or nullifying the suspension—suggesting no such reinstatement order exists.

“This proves her claims of being reinstated are false,” Okolugbo said. “Her decision to storm the National Assembly on July 22 with supporters was not only premeditated but reckless and disruptive.”

He described her return attempt as a “media stunt” aimed at manipulating public sentiment, stating that there was no official court directive to the Clerk or Senate leadership reinstating her.

“The Senate is not a reality show,” Okolugbo said. “She should have followed constitutional channels. If a court had truly ordered her recall, the Clerk would have informed the leadership, and due process would follow.”

He also addressed criticisms targeting Senate President Akpabio, stressing that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was a result of Senate rules and constitutional provisions, not personal animosity.

According to Okolugbo, the Senate even left a path open for her return—requiring only a public apology for her conduct on February 20. “Even the Brekete Family advised her to apologise, but she refused,” he added.

He noted that the suspension didn’t stall legislative progress in her Kogi Central constituency, citing the advancement of her bill to establish a Federal Medical Centre in Ihima.

Okolugbo warned that the senator’s actions could undermine the credibility of women in politics. “With only four female senators, weaponising gender and spreading falsehoods damages the hard-won progress of women in leadership.”

He also criticised sections of the media for sensationalising the issue. “Some journalists admitted they knew the facts but preferred the drama. Now that Ground 23 is public, it’s clear she lied,” he said.

In conclusion, Okolugbo urged Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to retract her claims and issue a public apology to resolve the matter. “If not, the legal process will take its full course,” he warned.