The Nigerian Senate has barred Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, from resuming despite her six-month suspension ending.
In a letter dated September 4, 2025, Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, addressed her request. Akpoti-Uduaghan had informed the Senate that her suspension elapsed that same day and asked to return immediately.
However, the Red Chamber insisted that her suspension remains in force until the Court of Appeal rules on her case. The Senate has appealed an earlier High Court ruling that favored her and vowed to await judicial clarity.
“The matter remains sub judice. Until the judicial process concludes, no administrative action will allow your resumption,” the Senate stated.
The leadership added that it would only reconsider her suspension after the appellate court delivers its pronouncement on the matter.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension earlier this year sparked controversy across Nigeria. Civil society groups argued that the move denied Kogi Central adequate representation in the Senate. Her supporters accused Senate leadership of abusing its disciplinary powers for political reasons.
For now, Kogi Central constituents remain without a voice in the upper chamber. The Court of Appeal’s eventual ruling will determine Akpoti-Uduaghan’s fate and could reshape the balance of power between Nigeria’s legislature and judiciary.
