Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 over alleged misconduct. But in a recent judgment, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court ruled that the six-month suspension was “excessive” and violated her constitutional rights.
By Titilope Adako
The Nigerian Senate has rejected Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s move to resume legislative duties, insisting there is no legal basis for her return even after a court declared her suspension unconstitutional.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 over alleged misconduct. But in a recent judgment, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court ruled that the six-month suspension was “excessive” and violated her constitutional rights.
Following the ruling, her legal counsel, Michael Numa (SAN), wrote to the National Assembly on July 11 to notify them of her intention to resume on July 15.
However, the Senate, in a letter dated July 14 and addressed to Numa, stated that there was no court order compelling the Senate, the Senate President, or the National Assembly to act on the judgment.
The letter, signed by Charles Yoila, Director of Litigation and Counselling for the Clerk to the National Assembly, clarified that the court’s judgment only advised the Senate to exercise its discretion in recalling her.
“You may wish to advise your client to await the action of the Senate to exercise their power of recall as advised by the court,” the letter read.
Senate spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, also noted that the court’s Certified True Copy contained no directive for her reinstatement.
“The judgment did not include any express or mandatory order directing the recall or reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan,” he said.
Despite arguments by Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team that the judgment is binding under Section 318 of the Constitution, the Senate maintains she cannot resume her duties yet.
Her reinstatement remains in limbo, as the Senate insists on taking no action until it deems fit.
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