The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has reminded Senate President Godswill Akpabio that it is unlawful to stop Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) from resuming her seat after serving her six-month suspension.
NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) argued that the Senate has no legal basis to keep Natasha out. He stressed that once her suspension ended, she was free to return, regardless of the ongoing appeal.
“If the suspension has ended, she can resume her seat. The Senate cannot rely on a pending appeal to deprive her constituents of representation. It should act with honour and allow her to return,” Osigwe said.
Suspension Triggered by Misconduct Allegation
Natasha was suspended on March 6 after the Senate, led by Akpabio, adopted a committee report accusing her of misconduct. The suspension followed her public accusation that Akpabio sexually harassed her.
The punitive measure stripped her of salary, aides, security, and barred her from the National Assembly chambers.
Court Declares Suspension Unconstitutional
She challenged the decision at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where Justice Binta Nyako ruled the suspension excessive and unconstitutional, ordering her recall.
Despite this ruling, the Senate refused to reinstate her. After completing her suspension, Natasha formally notified the Senate of her intention to resume.
Acting Clerk of the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, rejected her request in writing. He stated that the suspension stands until the Court of Appeal delivers judgment.
“The matter remains sub judice. Until the judicial process concludes, no administrative action can be taken,” Danzaria wrote.
Credit: Nigerian Tribune
