NASS moves to block Natasha’s return to Senate after 6-month suspension

NASS moves to block Natasha’s return to Senate after 6-month suspension

The National Assembly has rejected Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to resume her legislative duties, insisting that her six-month suspension remains valid until the Court of Appeal delivers judgment on the matter.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, had written to the Senate notifying them of her plan to return on September 4, which she considered the expiration date of her suspension. However, in a letter dated the same day and signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, the parliament clarified that her suspension took effect from March 6, 2025.

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“The matter, therefore, remains subjudice, and until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in the light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption,” the letter read.

The correspondence further assured the lawmaker that she “will be duly notified of the Senate’s decision on the matter as soon as it is resolved.”

Her suspension was approved in March after a heated clash with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements during plenary. While the Federal High Court in Abuja upheld the Senate’s decision, the senator proceeded to the Court of Appeal to challenge the ruling.

Until the appellate court rules, the National Assembly has maintained that Akpoti-Uduaghan cannot return to the Red Chamber.

NASS moves to block Natasha’s return to Senate after 6-month suspension