Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has declared her intention to resume legislative duties at the Senate on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, following a landmark ruling by the Federal High Court that voided her suspension and ordered her immediate reinstatement.
Justice Binta Nyako, in a judgment delivered on Friday, ruled that the suspension imposed on Akpoti-Uduaghan was unconstitutional and deprived the people of Kogi Central of their right to representation.
The court emphasized that the Senate’s action lacked procedural fairness. However, the judge also found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt for violating an earlier court order through a satirical Facebook post aimed at Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
She was fined N5 million for breaching the court’s interim injunction, which barred public commentary on the ongoing legal case.
In a video shared via her official social media handles, the senator celebrated the judgment and confirmed her planned return.
“I thank you for your support. I am glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God,” she said.
But while Akpoti-Uduaghan makes preparations for her return, the Senate has taken a cautious stance.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, confirmed that the Red Chamber will not act on the ruling until it receives and reviews the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment.
“Although our legal team was in court, the full judgment was not read in open session. A formal application has been filed to obtain the CTC for proper legal interpretation.
Pending receipt and examination of the CTC—and acting on legal counsel—the Senate shall refrain from taking any steps that may prejudice its legal position,” Adaramodu said.
He added that no enrolled order had yet been served on any party, meaning enforcement of the ruling is not yet lawful.
Meanwhile, the Kogi Renaissance Group, which had previously backed Akpoti-Uduaghan, issued a statement urging the senator to exercise caution and avoid any confrontational move, especially amid speculations that she planned to “storm” the National Assembly to enforce her reinstatement.
“Such a move would escalate tensions and disrespect both the judiciary and the Senate as an institution,” said Segun Faniyi, the group’s spokesperson.
The group admitted that its earlier support for Akpoti-Uduaghan was based on incomplete facts, adding that the full court ruling provided needed clarity. It also extended an apology to the Senate and Senate President Akpabio.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 after a dramatic plenary session turned chaotic due to a dispute over seating arrangements.
The incident was followed by explosive claims from the senator, including accusations of sexual harassment against Akpabio in a televised interview—allegations that further escalated the standoff.
As the legal and political tensions continue, the Senate has reassured Nigerians of its commitment to due process, constitutional governance, and respect for court orders.
All eyes are now on Tuesday, when Akpoti-Uduaghan is expected to attempt her return—amid unresolved legal and procedural issues.
