The Nigerian Senate has issued yet another stern warning to suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, insisting she remains barred from returning to the National Assembly.
This latest caution follows Akpoti-Uduaghan’s announcement on Saturday, July 19, stating her intention to resume legislative duties on Tuesday, July 22. She cited a recent ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, as the basis for her planned return.
However, the Senate disagrees.
Speaking on behalf of the Red Chamber, Senate Committee Chairman on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, clarified that there is no binding court order mandating Akpoti-Uduaghan’s immediate reinstatement.
According to Adaramodu, “The Senate wishes to reaffirm, for the third time, that there is no subsisting court order directing the Senate to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before her suspension ends.”
He explained that the Federal High Court’s ruling was not a directive, but rather an advisory opinion suggesting that the Senate consider reviewing its Standing Orders and reassess the senator’s suspension, which the court said “may be excessive.”
Importantly, the court also found Akpoti-Uduaghan in contempt of court, imposing a ₦5 million fine and ordering her to issue a public apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page. The Senate noted that these instructions have yet to be carried out.
Adaramodu warned that any attempt by the suspended senator to force her way back into the Senate chamber, based on a misinterpretation of the judgment, would be viewed as a serious breach of legislative protocol and a direct challenge to the authority of the National Assembly.
“The Senate strongly reiterates: there is no enforceable order reinstating her at this time. We will review the court’s advisory at the appropriate moment and make a formal decision. Until then, due process must be respected,” he stated.
