The suspended Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has confirmed that she will resume her duties at the National Assembly on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, following a court ruling that declared her suspension unlawful and directed her immediate reinstatement.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan made the announcement in a video message shared across her official social media platforms on Sunday, where she thanked her constituents and supporters for their unwavering solidarity throughout the legal battle.
> “I thank you for your support. I am glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God,” she stated.
Background of the Suspension
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate in March 2025 after a rowdy plenary session that turned controversial due to disagreements over seat allocations and alleged breaches of protocol. The situation escalated when the senator, during a live television appearance shortly after the suspension, accused the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, of sexual harassment—a claim that sparked public and institutional reactions.
The Senate leadership cited “unparliamentary conduct” as the reason for her suspension, which was set for an indefinite period but later clarified as a six-month disciplinary action. However, several civil society organisations, legal experts, and members of the public criticised the decision, describing it as unconstitutional and a misuse of legislative power.
Court Ruling and Legal Implications
On Friday, July 4, 2025, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, ruled that the suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was unconstitutional, procedurally flawed, and a direct violation of the rights of the people of Kogi Central to be represented in the legislature.
Justice Nyako emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution does not grant the Senate the power to suspend an elected lawmaker for an extended period without due process. She further noted that such actions infringe on the democratic principle of fair representation and accountability.
“The Senate acted beyond its constitutional authority. Prolonged suspensions, especially without a transparent and fair disciplinary process, deprive citizens of their right to be represented in national legislative decisions,” the judge stated.
Justice Nyako also referenced Section 63 of the Nigerian Constitution, which mandates senators to attend at least 181 sitting days in a legislative year. She warned that such suspensions, if left unchecked, could lead to widespread abuse of legislative power and erode public trust in democratic institutions.
Contempt of Court and Fine
Despite ruling in her favour, the court also found Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt of court for a social media post made during the legal proceedings. The post, described as a “satirical apology” directed at the Senate President, was deemed to have violated a court order issued on March 4, 2025, which restrained all parties from commenting publicly or on social media about the case.
As a result, the court imposed a ₦5 million fine on the senator for breaching the injunction, warning that disregard for court orders, regardless of the underlying circumstances, will not be tolerated.
Reactions and Next Steps
In the wake of the judgment, supporters and political allies of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan have expressed satisfaction with the ruling, describing it as a landmark victory for democracy, due process, and the rule of law. Several advocacy groups have also hailed the judgment as a reaffirmation of judicial independence and a safeguard against legislative overreach.
The leadership of the Senate has yet to issue a formal statement in response to the court’s decision, but legal analysts suggest that the ruling sets a significant precedent that could influence future disciplinary actions within the National Assembly.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was elected to represent Kogi Central in the 2023 general elections after defeating her All Progressives Congress (APC) opponent. Her victory marked a historic milestone, as she became the first female senator from the district.
She is expected to formally return to plenary on Tuesday, July 8, where she will resume her legislative functions, including active participation in committee assignments, motions, debates, and representation of her constituents.
