The Nigerian Senate has prevented Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from taking the oath of office to officially resume her duties, despite the fact that her suspension has expired. The upper chamber insists the matter is still in court and as such cannot be resolved administratively.
Thus, in a letter from the acting Clerk of the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria confirmed Natasha had notified the Senate of her willingness to resume office via email. However, the acting Clerk said, her request could not be granted at this time, pending the ruling of the appellate court.
It will be recalled that Natasha was suspended on Mar 6, 2025 after a fracas in the Senate chamber. On March 12, Natasha went to court challenging the Senate’s action and on September 29, The Federal High Court ruled the suspension was excessive but the Senate subsequently appealed and is still pending a judgment.
By law, the Senate argues that an appeal has the effect of automatically staying execution. Therefore, Natasha’s suspension will remain in place, until a final judgment has been rendered. Senate officials reported that Natasha would be formally notified when the court process was completed.
This latest development continues to prolong the conflict between Natasha and the Senate leadership. At the same time, her Kogi Central constituents currently lack a federal representative. As it stands, it is uncertain when Natasha would return to work. Until the court issues its verdict, the stand-off between her and the Senate continues.
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