The Senate has again come under heavy criticism following its refusal to allow Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, to resume her legislative duties after serving out a six-month suspension.
Natasha, who was suspended on March 6, 2025, had formally notified the Senate of her readiness to return to the Red Chamber after the expiration of her suspension period. However, in a letter dated September 4, 2025, the Acting Clerk of the Senate, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, ruled out her resumption, insisting that the matter is still pending before the Court of Appeal.
The Senate maintained that no administrative action could be taken until the appellate court decides on the legality of her suspension. This decision has sparked outrage among political analysts, lawyers, opposition parties, and civil society groups who insist that Natasha has already served her suspension and has the constitutional right to resume immediately.
Senior lawyers, including Obioma Ezenwobo (SAN) and E.M.D. Umukoro (SAN), faulted the Senate’s stance, stressing that an appeal does not operate as a stay of execution unless a specific court order is obtained. They argued that barring Natasha from returning amounts to contempt of court and a violation of democratic principles.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) condemned the action, describing it as a clear attempt to silence the senator and deny the people of Kogi Central their representation. The PDP further urged Natasha to disregard the directive and prepare to resume, accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of undermining democratic institutions.
Similarly, the Labour Party (LP) warned that the Senate’s action was damaging Nigeria’s international reputation and discouraging investor confidence. Civil society group SERAP also described the development as an assault on the rule of law and vowed to mount pressure on the Senate to comply with the constitution.
Former Kaduna Central lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, noted that Natasha’s fate now rests on the outcome of the appeal, even as he urged the Senate leadership to tread carefully in order not to deepen Nigeria’s democratic crisis.
It would be recalled that the Federal High Court had earlier declared Natasha’s suspension unconstitutional and excessive, ordering her reinstatement—a decision the Senate challenged at the Court of Appeal.
For now, all eyes are on the appellate court, whose ruling will determine whether Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan can reclaim her seat or remain locked out of the legislative chamber.
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