NBA Urges Senate To Allow Natasha Akpoti Return

The Nigerian Bar Association has called on the Senate to allow Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the suspended senator representing Kogi Central, to resume her seat following the expiration of her six-month suspension.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, after the Senate adopted the report of its Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, which accused her of violating chamber rules by refusing to vacate her assigned seat during plenary. The suspension stripped her of her salary, aides, and access to office facilities.

She challenged the decision at the Federal High Court and later appealed the ruling delivered by Justice Binta Nyako. While awaiting judgment at the Court of Appeal, the Senate wrote to her on September 4 through the acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, informing her that she would not be allowed to resume until the court process was concluded.

The letter stated that since the matter remained before the courts, no administrative action could be taken to facilitate her return. This development effectively extended her suspension beyond the six months originally imposed.

The NBA, however, rejected the Senate’s position. Its president, Afam Osigwe (SAN), argued that the expiration of the suspension should pave the way for her return, regardless of the ongoing legal battle. He said keeping her away from the chamber denied her constituents proper representation.

He maintained that the Senate should not use the pending appeal as grounds to block her resumption, stressing that the honourable path was to allow her back while the courts decide whether the initial suspension was justified.

The controversy has now thrown up questions about legislative authority and the rights of elected representatives, with pressure mounting on the Senate to reverse its stance and reopen the door for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return.