By Muhammad Mamman
The National Assembly has blocked Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), from resuming legislative duties despite her claim that her six-month suspension had lapsed.
On 4 September 2025, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan formally notified the leadership of her intention to return to the Red Chamber. However, in a reply signed by the Acting Clerk of the National Assembly, Dr Yahaya Danzaria, she was informed that her suspension remains in force pending the outcome of her case at the Court of Appeal.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on 6 March 2025 following a heated confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements during plenary. She challenged the decision in court, but the Federal High Court upheld the Senate’s action, prompting her appeal.
The Assembly, in its letter, made it clear that no administrative steps would be taken until the appellate court delivers its judgment.
“The matter remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded, the suspension cannot be reviewed. You will be duly notified of the Senate’s decision once the case is resolved,” the letter stated.
