Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has declared her intention to resume legislative duties in the Senate today, following a landmark ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja that nullified her six-month suspension.
In a video widely circulated on social media, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan addressed jubilant supporters, stating: “I thank you for your support. I am glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God.”
The court, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, ruled last Friday that the suspension was excessive, unconstitutional, and a violation of the rights of her constituents. The judgment ordered her immediate reinstatement to the Red Chamber.
However, the Senate leadership has responded with caution, stating that no official action will be taken until the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court’s pronouncement is received and reviewed. According to Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, the Senate’s legal team was present during the ruling but did not hear the full judgment in open court.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return comes amid heightened tensions, as her suspension in March followed a controversial plenary session during which she accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of misconduct. The court also imposed a ₦5 million fine on the senator for contempt, citing a satirical Facebook post that violated an earlier gag order.