Senate Tells Suspended Natasha to Stay Away Again

Tensions have deepened between the Nigerian Senate and suspended lawmaker, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as the upper chamber has again warned her to stay off the National Assembly complex despite her claims of a court victory.

The clash was reignited after the Kogi Central senator declared her intention to return to plenary on Tuesday, July 22, based on a judgment delivered by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja. She insisted the ruling paved the way for her immediate reinstatement.

But the Senate responded firmly through its spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, dismissing the senator’s interpretation of the ruling. He clarified that the court did not order her reinstatement but merely offered suggestions on reviewing internal Senate rules and possibly reconsidering the suspension decision.

The Senate argued that the judgment did not find fault with its procedures or legality in suspending Akpoti-Uduaghan. Rather, the court acknowledged the Senate’s authority while suggesting that the suspension might be excessive and could be reviewed.

The Senate spokesperson also pointed out that the same ruling found the suspended senator guilty of contempt and ordered her to pay a ₦5 million fine. She was also directed to apologise publicly in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page — actions she has yet to carry out.

The upper chamber warned that any attempt by the senator to force her way into the legislative chambers would be seen as disorderly and disrespectful to the institution. The leadership maintained that there is no valid court order requiring them to reverse her suspension or allow her back immediately.

As it stands, the Senate said it will study the court’s advisory and decide on a way forward when it deems fit. Until then, Akpoti-Uduaghan has been urged to stay away and allow legislative procedures to run their course.

This marks the third time the Senate has reiterated its stance, as the standoff between the lawmaker and the chamber continues to stir public debate over the balance between judicial advice and parliamentary independence.