The political drama surrounding Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken another twist. Even after completing her six-month suspension, the Senate has insisted that she cannot yet return to her seat.
On Thursday, September 4, 2025, Natasha wrote to the Senate, informing them that her suspension had ended and she was ready to resume her duties. But in a letter signed by the acting clerk to the National Assembly, Dr Yahaya Danzaria, the Senate made it clear that she would not be allowed to return yet.
According to the Senate, the matter is still before the Court of Appeal. The letter stressed that her suspension remains valid until the court delivers its verdict.
“The matter remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded, no administrative action can be taken to facilitate your resumption,” the letter read.
Why Natasha Was Suspended
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended on March 6, 2025. The suspension followed allegations of gross misconduct after she refused to move to her newly assigned seat during a plenary session.
The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions recommended the suspension.
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As part of the punishment, Natasha lost her office, aides, and salaries for a period of 6 months.
But Natasha has long argued that her suspension was a retaliation for accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, a claim the Senate dismissed.
The Legal Battle
Natasha took the matter to court, and a Federal High Court gave a ruling she interpreted as a recall order. She immediately declared her readiness to resume after serving six months.
However, the Senate has downplayed the judgement, calling it “advice” rather than a binding order.
Her lawyer, Victor Giwa, told reporters that Natasha, currently in London on vacation, plans to return for plenary when the Senate resumes on September 23.
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But the Senate’s latest response means her return will depend entirely on what the Court of Appeal decides, a process which will further deprive her constituency of adequate representation.
Natasha’s Resumption May Have “No Date”
Former lawmaker Shehu Sani has also spoken on the matter, warning that Natasha’s resumption may have “no date” if it depends on the outcome of the court case.
He wrote: “If the pending court issues have to be resolved before the Kogi Senator resumes, then the resumption has no date.”
His words capture the lack of clarity on when, or if, she will resume her mandate.
What Happens Next
For now, Natasha’s seat remains empty, and her political career is caught between Senate rules and the court process. While she insists on returning, the Senate insists on waiting for the judiciary.
Her earlier attempt in July to force her way back into the chamber ended in chaos, as security operatives blocked her entry despite being cheered on by supporters outside.
As things stand, Natasha’s battle is far from over. Whether she resumes later this month, next year, or at all will depend on the Court of Appeal’s final word.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
