Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has postponed her much-publicised return to the Nigerian Senate—despite a recent court ruling that nullified her six-month suspension from the Red Chamber.
Court Clears Way, but Senate Awaits Certified Ruling
On Friday, 4 July 2025, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension from the Senate was unlawful and violated her fundamental rights. The court ordered her immediate reinstatement, sparking widespread anticipation of her return to legislative duties by Tuesday, 8 July.
However, despite her promise—made in a widely circulated video—to resume plenary attendance, the senator was conspicuously absent from the chambers on the stated date.
According to The Punch, the Senate leadership opted not to act immediately on the court’s decision, insisting it would wait to review the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment before making any formal move.
Tension at the National Assembly
In anticipation of a potential standoff, security was reportedly tightened at the National Assembly complex on Tuesday morning. As Daily Trust reported, the traffic gridlock extended to the Federal Secretariat junction, and all vehicles entering the complex were subjected to intensive screening. Occupants were also asked to justify their presence.
Despite speculation linking the heightened security presence to Senator Natasha’s anticipated return, authorities maintained that the measures were unrelated to her situation.
Still, observers believe her absence may have been prompted by warnings from Senate leadership, subtly discouraging her from making a premature appearance pending a formal response to the court’s judgment.
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New Senate Bill Targets Internal Discipline
In a related move, the Senate has begun taking steps to tighten its internal disciplinary procedures. As reported by Channels Television, a bill seeking to amend the Legislative Houses (Powers & Privileges) Act has passed its first reading.
Sponsored by Senator Shehu Kaka, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Special Duties, the proposed legislation—tagged SB. 708—aims to grant the Senate greater authority to discipline erring members through stricter measures.
The proposed amendment comes just four days after Senator Natasha’s court victory, suggesting a legislative response to the controversy her case has stirred.
What Next for Natasha?
It remains unclear when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan will return to the Senate floor or whether she will issue an official apology as some quarters have demanded. For now, Nigerians and political observers are left waiting as Senate leadership studies the court’s ruling and internal tensions continue to simmer.
