NASS Blocks Suspended Kogi Senator Natasha’s Attempt to Resume Senate Role

The National Assembly management has officially rejected Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s appeal to return to her legislative duties following her six-month suspension for alleged misconduct.

According to the National Assembly administration, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension remains active as the issue is still pending before the Court of Appeal.

After the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled in favor of the Senate regarding the suspension, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, dissatisfied with the verdict, sought relief from the appellate court.

In a letter dated September 4, 2025, and signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, the Parliament acknowledged receipt of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s notification about her planned return to the Senate on the same date—asserted to be the conclusion of her suspension period.

However, the letter clarified that her suspension started on March 6, 2025, and since the matter remains sub judice, she is not permitted to resume her legislative role.

The National Assembly emphasized that no administrative steps will be taken until the Court of Appeal issues its final judgment on the case.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended in March 2025 following a Senate resolution tied to alleged misconduct after a dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements during a plenary session.

The letter also indicated that the Senate will reconsider the suspension only after the court delivers its conclusive ruling.

“The matter remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is complete and the Senate formally revisits the suspension in light of the court’s decision, no administrative action will be undertaken to enable your resumption,” the Acting Clerk stated in the letter.

He added that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan “will be officially informed of the Senate’s decision once the matter is resolved.”