The National Assembly (NASS) has told suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan that she cannot return to the Red Chamber despite completing her six-month suspension.
According to the Assembly bureaucracy, the suspension remains valid because her case is still pending at the Court of Appeal.
Suspension Still in Force
Nigeria Tribune reports that the Federal High Court in Abuja earlier ruled in favour of the Senate. Dissatisfied with the verdict, Akpoti-Uduaghan approached the appellate court for redress.
In a letter dated September 4, 2025, and signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, the lawmaker was informed that her notification of resumption could not be accepted. She had earlier written to the Parliament, stating that her suspension, which began on March 6, 2025, had expired.
However, the Assembly maintained that her suspension remains effective until the court delivers its judgment.
Senate Awaits Court Decision
“The matter remains subjudice. Until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption,” the letter stated.
Dr. Danzaria assured the lawmaker that she would be duly informed once the Senate takes a final decision.
Background of the Suspension
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 over alleged misconduct during a plenary session, following a dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio regarding seat arrangements.
The letter stressed that the Senate will only reconsider her suspension after the Court of Appeal issues its ruling.
Source: Nigeria Tribune
