Senate Lawyers Warn Senator Natasha Over Misinterpretation of Court Ruling

Legal counsel to the Nigerian Senate has issued a stern warning to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over her public statements claiming that a Federal High Court ruling has mandated her recall from suspension.

The caution was conveyed in a letter from the chambers of Paul Daudu, SAN & Co., addressed to J.S. Okutekpa, SAN & Co., legal representatives of the senator.

The warning follows the circulation of a video showing Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan addressing supporters, where she reportedly declared her intention to return to the Senate based on a judgment delivered by Justice Binta Nyako on July 4, 2025.

“Your client is seen in a video telling her supporters that she will resume her Senate duties next Tuesday, claiming that the court directed the Senate to recall her from suspension,” the letter noted.

The Senate’s legal team, however, rejected this interpretation of the ruling, insisting that no such directive was issued by the court.

“As counsel who were present in court, we are compelled to clarify the facts,” the letter emphasized.
“The judgment did not include any clear or enforceable order nullifying your client’s six-month suspension.”

According to the Senate’s lawyers, the judge merely expressed an opinion regarding the severity of the suspension, describing it as potentially excessive in view of the representation rights of her constituents.

“That statement was an obiter dicta — a judicial observation, not an enforceable command,” they clarified.

The letter raised concerns about the possible implications of Senator Natasha’s public statements, warning that such claims could create unnecessary confusion within the National Assembly.

“Your client’s assertion is misleading and capable of inciting disorder within the legislative environment,” the legal team warned.

Paul Daudu, SAN, urged the senator’s counsel to advise her to respect due process and refrain from returning to the Senate chamber prematurely.

“We request that your client abstain from resuming legislative functions until the court’s enrolled order is formally released and properly reviewed by all stakeholders,” the letter stated.

It further cautioned against any action that could be construed as contempt of court.

“This restraint is necessary to ensure that all actions taken are based on the actual content and intent of the court’s judgment — not assumptions.”

The Senate’s lawyers concluded by underscoring that, as of now, the court’s enrolled ruling has not been made available and should be awaited before any steps are taken.

“Until the official court order is obtained and thoroughly examined, no action should be taken based on a presumed directive that is not reflected in the judgment.”

As of press time, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has not issued a formal response to the Senate’s legal notice.