Senate Brushes Off Natasha Akpoti’s Return as Political Drama

The Senate has dismissed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to return to plenary as political theatre, insisting that her suspension still stands despite her claim of a court ruling in her favour.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended in May for accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual misconduct. She arrived at the National Assembly on Tuesday in an effort to resume her duties, citing a federal high court judgment as the legal basis for her return. But security personnel barred her from entering the premises.

Following the incident, Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu addressed the matter in a live television interview. He criticized the senator’s return attempt, describing it as a distraction from legislative work. He said the Senate would not entertain what he called a performance meant for public attention.

He explained that while Akpoti-Uduaghan referenced a court judgment, it did not overturn her suspension. According to him, the judgment directed the senator to apologize, retract a social media post, and pay a fine of five million naira. That ruling is currently being challenged in court, making it unenforceable at this stage.

Adaramodu emphasized that only court bailiffs are authorized to enforce judgments, not individuals involved in the case. He also said the Senate acted within the powers granted by Section 60 of the constitution and its own internal rules.

He pointed to what he called a confrontational entry by the senator, alleging she came with supporters holding placards and chanting. He said such conduct was unacceptable and would not be tolerated inside the National Assembly.

According to him, unless a higher court declares the suspension unlawful in clear terms, the Senate’s decision remains valid. He stressed that the issue is not personal but concerns the collective authority of the Senate.

With tensions still high, the leadership has made it clear that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return will not be considered unless the judiciary issues a final and binding decision that nullifies her suspension.