The Nigerian Senate has formally responded to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s notification of intent to resume legislative duties on July 15, 2025, following a Federal High Court ruling that declared her six-month suspension unconstitutional.
In a letter dated July 14, the Senate acknowledged receipt of the court judgment and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s demand for compliance. However, the Senate leadership has requested that the senator await further legislative and procedural action before resuming plenary activities. The Senate cited ongoing internal consultations and legal interpretations of the judgment as reasons for the delay.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, had earlier written through her legal counsel, M.J Numa & Partners LLP, demanding immediate reinstatement in line with the court’s ruling. The judgment, delivered by Justice Binta Nyako, described the suspension as “excessive, overreaching, and unconstitutional”, and emphasized the senator’s right to represent her constituents under Section 63 of the 1999 Constitution.
In response to the Senate’s latest communication, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stated: “While I remain committed to upholding the rule of law and the rights of my constituents, I will respect the Senate’s request and await further clarification. My dedication to legislative service and national development remains unwavering.”
The senator also reiterated her continued engagement with constituency projects and legislative initiatives, including her flagship Gold Reserve Bill, which she has vowed to pursue regardless of her physical presence in the chambers.
This development has sparked renewed debate over the limits of parliamentary discipline and the enforceability of judicial decisions within legislative bodies. Legal experts and civil society groups are closely monitoring the situation, which may set a precedent for future cases involving legislative suspensions.