The planned resumption of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the National Assembly has sparked controversy, with former lawmaker Shehu Sani weighing in on the matter. Sani stated that the senator’s return remains uncertain if it depends on the outcome of a pending court case, noting that “if the pending court issues has to be resolved before the Kogi Senator resumes, then the resumption has no date.”
The National Assembly rejected Akpoti-Uduaghan’s notification to resume legislative duties on Tuesday, citing that her six-month suspension remains in force pending the judgment of the Court of Appeal. In a letter dated September 4, 2025, the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, clarified that the suspension began on March 6, 2025, following allegations of insubordination after Akpoti-Uduaghan rejected a change of her seat during plenary.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, had informed the Senate that her suspension ended on September 4. However, the Senate stressed that the matter is sub judice and would only be reviewed after the court delivers its verdict. The upper legislative chamber’s decision highlights the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to the National Assembly.
The controversy surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension and planned resumption has significant implications for the legislative process in Nigeria. As the matter remains in court, it is unclear when Akpoti-Uduaghan will be able to resume her duties, potentially impacting the representation of her constituents in Kogi Central. The National Assembly’s decision to uphold the suspension pending the court’s judgment underscores the importance of adhering to legal processes and procedures in resolving disputes within the legislative body.
The outcome of the court case will ultimately determine the fate of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to the National Assembly. Until then, her constituents will have to wait for a resolution, highlighting the need for timely and effective dispute resolution mechanisms within the legislative system. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the National Assembly and the court will navigate this complex issue, and what implications it will have for the wider legislative process in Nigeria.
