Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Returns to National Assembly After Six-Month Suspension

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, made a highly anticipated return to her office at the National Assembly on Tuesday — six months after being suspended by the Senate leadership.

Amid cheers, songs, and dancing, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker was warmly received by her supporters, who accompanied her from the FCT High Court to the NASS Complex in Abuja.

“Glad to Be Back”

Entering her office in Suite 2.05, Senate Wing, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed relief and optimism.

“For me, I am glad to be here. Even though we had been illegally suspended, not a single day did I hesitate in effectively carrying out my duties as senator of Kogi Central to the very best of my capacity,” she said.

Her office was officially reopened by Alabi Adedeji, Deputy Director of the Sergeant-at-Arms.

Although the Senate is currently on recess until October 7, 2025, the visit marked her symbolic return to duty.

Legal Battle and Defamation Case

Earlier the same day, Senator Natasha appeared in a defamation case filed by the Federal Government on behalf of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

Despite the court case being ongoing, her suspension — which began on March 6, 2025 — officially expired this September.

Controversial Suspension

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended over alleged violations of the Senate’s standing rules, a decision that drew backlash from civil society organisations and opposition leaders who labelled it unlawful and politically motivated.

The Senate, however, maintained it was acting within the law. Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, defended the suspension:

“The National Assembly is not a banana republic. We operate under rules that must be obeyed,” he said at a recent workshop in Abuja.

Senate Stance: Suspension Stands Pending Court Ruling

In July, Senator Natasha filed a suit challenging her suspension and later wrote to the Senate seeking to resume duties. However, the Senate replied that no administrative action would be taken until the legal process is concluded.

“The matter remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded, no administrative action can be taken to facilitate your resumption,” read the Senate’s official response.

While the legal challenge is still pending, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s symbolic return has been viewed by supporters as a defiant stand against political suppression and a reaffirmation of her mandate.

Her full resumption of Senate duties may hinge on the Court of Appeal's ruling, which could set a precedent for how legislative suspensions are handled going forward.

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