The National Assembly has responded to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team following a recent court judgment advising the Senate to recall her after a controversial six-month suspension.
In a letter addressed to Natasha’s lawyer, Michael Jonathan Numan, the Clerk to the National Assembly (NASS) clarified that the Abuja Federal High Court's ruling did not issue a mandatory order for her reinstatement but only advised the Senate to reconsider her recall.
Senator Natasha, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended in connection with allegations of sexual harassment she made against Senate President Godswill Akpabio — a move that sparked intense public debate and legal challenges.
Following her suspension, Natasha approached the court to seek redress. Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered a judgment on July 4, 2025, recommending that the Senate recall the embattled senator and allow her to resume her duties.
In reaction, her lawyer wrote to the National Assembly demanding compliance with the court’s directive. However, the Clerk’s office, through a letter signed by Charles Yoila, Director of Litigation and Counselling, responded with a firm stance.
“The court’s decision was a declaratory judgment and not a mandatory order,” the letter read. “It merely advised the Senate to consider recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan but did not compel them to do so.”
The Clerk further noted that only the Senate has the constitutional power to act on the recall, and that Natasha must now await the Senate’s internal processes and deliberation.
“You may wish to advise your client to await the action of the Senate, in line with the court’s guidance,” the letter added.
