Politics
National Assembly Blocks Senator Natasha’s Resumption Despite Expired Suspension
The National Assembly has barred Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming office despite completing her six-month suspension.
The Kogi Central senator had formally written to the Assembly, notifying that her suspension had expired and expressing her intention to return to the Senate.
However, in a response signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, the legislative body maintained that the matter remains unresolved due to an ongoing legal process.
“The subject matter of your suspension is presently before the Court of Appeal. The matter therefore remains sub judice and until the judicial process is completed, 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 read in part.
Court Dispute and Denied Entry
Senator Natasha had earlier attempted to resume on July 12, following a Federal High Court judgment directing the Senate to review her suspension. However, she was denied entry into the National Assembly.
Both Senator Natasha and the National Assembly subsequently appealed aspects of the ruling, leaving the case pending before the Court of Appeal.
The Clerk’s letter added that the senator would be formally notified of the Senate’s decision once the judicial process is concluded.
Suspension Timeline
Natasha’s suspension, which took effect on March 6, 2025, was originally set to last six months. With the expiration date now passed, her resumption remains tied to the outcome of the appeal proceedings and a Senate review.
This development deepens the standoff between the senator and the legislative institution, raising questions about the scope of parliamentary privilege and judicial oversight in Nigeria’s democratic process.
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