Senate Warns Suspended Lawmaker Against Premature Return

The Senate has cautioned suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against resuming her legislative duties on Tuesday, citing that her suspension remains in effect until its expiration. Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, issued the warning in a statement on Sunday.

Adaramodu emphasized that there is no valid court order mandating Akpoti-Uduaghan’s immediate recall, despite her claims of a court judgment supporting her return. The Senate had previously clarified that the court’s ruling did not issue a positive or mandatory directive for her recall.

The court, according to Adaramodu, gave a non-binding advisory urging the Senate to consider amending its Standing Orders and reviewing the suspension. However, the court also found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt and imposed penalties, including a fine and a mandatory apology.

The Senate maintained that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to return to the Senate would be premature and disruptive, given the ongoing legal proceedings. The Senate will consider the court’s advisory opinion on amending its Standing Orders and Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recall at the appropriate time.

The Senate advised Akpoti-Uduaghan to stay away from the Senate chambers until due process is completed, emphasizing that her return would be a breach of legislative order.