Senate Tension Builds As Natasha Vows Return After Court Nullifies Suspension

Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central is set for a dramatic return to the Senate today despite resistance from the upper chamber.

Her comeback follows a Federal High Court ruling that nullified her six-month suspension, calling it unconstitutional and a denial of representation for her constituents.

In a viral video on Monday, Akpoti-Uduaghan thanked supporters and declared, “We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God.”

The court, in a judgment delivered by Justice Binta Nyako last Friday, ruled that the suspension was excessive and infringed on her rights and those of her constituents. The judge stated that while the Senate has the power to discipline its members, the action must not be so extreme as to deprive citizens of legislative representation.

However, the victory was not total. The court fined Akpoti-Uduaghan ₦5 million for contempt over a satirical Facebook post mocking Senate President Godswill Akpabio, made while a gag order was in place. She was ordered to issue a public apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page.

Despite the ruling, Senate leadership remains hesitant. In a statement on Sunday, Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu said the chamber was aware of the court decision but had yet to receive the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment.

“Our legal team, present at the ruling, noted the judgment was not read in full. We await the CTC to determine our legal response. Until we are served, no enforcement can proceed,” the Senate stated.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March following a stormy session during which she accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment—a claim that sparked heated backlash and led to the withdrawal of her benefits, salary, and security detail.

Still, the senator says the suspension did not stop her from serving her people. Over the weekend, she launched two major constituency projects in Kogi Central: smart markets in Okene and Okehi LGAs. Each market will house 80 stalls, solar power, boreholes, modern toilets, and security features to boost local commerce.

“Even outside the Senate chamber, I have remained on the ground, working for my people,” she told a cheering crowd. “Service to the people goes beyond politics.”

The smart markets are part of broader development efforts to mark her second anniversary in office in November 2025. Local traditional rulers, youth groups, and women organisations praised her dedication, calling her a symbol of resilience in the face of political adversity.

A showdown now looms as the senator heads to the National Assembly today, armed with a court ruling — but facing a chamber yet to officially accept her return.