The battle between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) and the National Assembly has deepened into a stalemate, as the legislature has formally barred her return to plenary despite the expiration of her six-month suspension.
On September 4, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan wrote to the leadership of the Assembly, notifying them of her intention to resume legislative duties. She insisted that the suspension imposed on March 6 had elapsed by effluxion of time.
“The suspension was for a definite period of six months, not indefinite. Upon expiration, my full rights and privileges as a Senator are automatically restored,” the lawmaker wrote in her letter to the Clerk of the National Assembly.
The senator further argued that her resumption was a constitutional right, irrespective of ongoing appeals, stressing that both she and Senate President Godswill Akpabio had filed separate appeals over aspects of the July Federal High Court ruling.
“Denying me entry into the National Assembly amounts to a breach of natural justice and fair hearing. I demand immediate access to my office to prepare for legislative business, constituency issues, and committee work,” she declared.
But the Assembly pushed back, citing the unresolved appeal before the Court of Appeal. In a letter signed by Acting Clerk of the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, her request was turned down.
“The matter remains subjudice, and until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption,” Danzaria stated.
He assured that Akpoti-Uduaghan would be informed once the Senate decides after the appellate court delivers its judgment.
The senator’s suspension in March stemmed from a fiery clash with Senate President Akpabio over seating arrangements and alleged discrimination in the chamber. A subsequent disciplinary process saw her barred for six months.
In July, the Federal High Court ruled parts of the suspension “excessive and unconstitutional” but upheld the Senate’s power to discipline its members. Both sides appealed, leaving the case unresolved and fueling the present stalemate.
The impasse has reignited debate over legislative powers and constitutional representation. Civil society groups have warned that prolonged suspensions risk disenfranchising voters.
Legal experts say the Court of Appeal’s ruling could set a precedent on the limits of parliamentary privilege and how far the legislature can go in sanctioning elected lawmakers.
For now, Senator Natasha’s office remains locked, her constituents without representation, and the National Assembly holding firm. The stalemate, it seems, will only break when the appellate court speaks.
