Senator Natasha H. Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central Senatorial District has formally notified the National Assembly of her intention to resume legislative duties following the expiration of her six-month suspension on September 4, 2025.
In a letter dated August 28, 2025, and received by the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly on September 1, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan outlined her legal right to return to her senatorial position after what she described as an “excessive and unconstitutional” suspension.
The suspension stemmed from a series of events earlier this year when Natasha’s seat was changed, not pleased with the changes, she vehemently refused to move to the newly allocated seat. She letter accused the Senate President of sexual harassment.
The Senator was denied entry to the National Assembly complex on July 21, 2025, following the Senate President’s filing of an appeal to the Court of Appeal. However, a Federal High Court ruling on July 4, 2025, had previously determined that her suspension was constitutional but excessive.
Despite the expiration of her suspension period, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s situation remains legally complex. She has filed Appeal No: CA/ABUJA/CV/1107/2025, challenging the constitutionality of the referral that led to her suspension and the terms imposed by the Federal High Court. Additionally, the Senate President has filed a cross-appeal. Both matters are currently pending before the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division.
“It is pertinent to state that my entitlement to resumption of my senatorial duties upon expiration of the suspension period subsists without prejudice to” the pending appeals, the senator wrote in her formal notice.
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Beyond announcing her return, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has formally requested immediate access to her senatorial office, citing several compelling grounds including preparation for parliamentary duties, constitutional obligations to her constituents, and administrative necessities.
Having been away from active senatorial duties for six months, she outlined her need to review pending legislative business, catch up on committee assignments and reports, attend to constituency matters that accumulated during her absence, and prepare for the resumption of plenary sessions.
The senator emphasized her constitutional obligation to represent her constituents effectively, stating that such representation requires proper preparation and access to official resources. She also cited the need for access to official correspondence, files, and other materials essential for the proper discharge of her senatorial responsibilities.
In her letter, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan reminded the National Assembly leadership that her suspension was for a definite period of six months, not indefinite, and that upon expiration, her full rights and privileges as a senator are automatically restored. She warned that any attempt to extend or vary the terms of the suspension beyond September 4, 2025, would constitute a breach of natural justice and fair hearing principles.
The senator concluded her formal demand by requesting written confirmation of arrangements for her resumption of duties, preferably before September 4, 2025.
