Why Natasha can’t resume legislative duties — NASS
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
Abdullateef Fowewe
The National Assembly has explained the reason the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, cannot yet resume legislative duties.
NASS in a memo claimed that Natasha‘s suspension is still a subject of litigation.
In a letter dated August 28, Akpoti-Uduaghan notified the Clerk to the National Assembly of her intention to return on September 4, which she maintained marked the expiration of her six-month suspension.
She cited a July ruling of the Federal High Court that described her suspension as “excessive and unconstitutional” and ordered her reinstatement.
“I write to formally notify you of my decision to resume my legislative function upon the expiration of the suspension period,” she stated, adding that she was entitled to resume her full duties as senator regardless of the pending appeals at the Court of Appeal.
She also requested immediate access to her office, citing the need to review pending legislative business, attend to committee assignments, and address constituency matters ahead of plenary sessions.
However, in a response dated September 4, Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, rejected her request.
Danzaria explained that the suspension, which began on March 6, 2025, remains the subject of litigation and therefore sub judice.
“Until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption,” the letter reads.
He added that the senator would be notified of any decision once the legal process is resolved.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 for alleged gross misconduct following an altercation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a seating arrangement dispute, Dailyeconomy reports.
