Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan announced plans to resume her duties in the Senate following a July 4, 2025 court ruling that deemed her six‑month suspension “excessive, unconstitutional,” and ordered her immediate reinstatement—alongside a ₦5 million contempt fine and a public apology in two national newspapers and her Facebook page.
However, the Senate has held off on taking action, stating it must first receive and review the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment before making any decisions. Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu emphasized that the ruling did not annul its constitutional disciplinary powers and that reinstatement would hinge on her compliance with the court’s conditions—particularly issuing the mandated apology.
Following these developments, Senator Akpoti‑Uduaghan—who cited legal counsel and procedure—delayed her return until the CTC is received . She remains actively engaged outside the chamber, championing constituency projects like her “Gold Reserve Bill” and advocating for continued representation of Kogi Central.
In her July 9 video message, the senator expressed gratitude to supporters and affirmed her readiness to return once process requirements are fulfilled . The Senate, meanwhile, has tightened security around the National Assembly premises, sparking speculation over tensions tied to her anticipated comeback.
This standoff spotlights the tension between judicial oversight and Senate autonomy, particularly the body’s disciplinary authority versus constitutional rights of legislators. Many legal experts previously criticized the original suspension as unlawful , and civil society groups have questioned its impact on women’s representation. As proceedings evolve, the primary hurdles remain receipt of the court’s CTC and Senator Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s fulfillment of the court‑ordered apology—once done, both sides appear ready to move toward resolution.
