Why Akpoti-Uduaghan can’t resume legislative duties now – National Assembly

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The much-anticipated return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate chambers has hit a legal roadblock, despite the expiration of her six-month suspension.

The lawmaker, representing Kogi Central, was suspended on 6 March 2025 over allegations of misconduct.

She has since contested the decision in court, setting the stage for a legal tussle that now determines her legislative future.

In a letter dated 28 August and addressed to the Clerk of the National Assembly, Akpoti-Uduaghan announced her intention to resume duties once the suspension elapsed on 4 September.

The senator argued that her constitutional right to representation could not be further delayed, emphasising that the suspension was for a fixed period and not indefinite.

Her request, however, was rebuffed.

Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, in a response dated 4 September, explained that the senator’s case remains under judicial consideration at the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division.

“The matter therefore remains sub judice,” the letter stated, adding that the Clerk’s office cannot take administrative steps to reinstate her until the appellate court delivers its judgment.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal battles have deepened the controversy.

Earlier, a Federal High Court had declared her suspension excessive and unconstitutional, ordering the Senate to recall her.

But with Senate leadership filing an appeal and a cross-appeal pending, the dispute has escalated to a higher judicial forum.

Caught between two opposing court positions, the senator insists her mandate has effectively been restored.

She maintains that she is entitled to access her office and resume her duties, particularly as her constituents have been without representation during her absence.

Meanwhile, the National Assembly has taken a cautious approach, opting to await judicial clarity before acting.

The situation has sparked public debate over the limits of legislative discipline, the rights of elected representatives, and the role of the judiciary in resolving institutional conflicts.