The Nigerian Senate has urged suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) to abide by due process and refrain from attempting to return to the National Assembly before her suspension officially ends.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, emphasized that there is currently no valid court ruling compelling the Senate to reinstate the suspended lawmaker.
“For the third time, the Senate reiterates that no standing court order exists that requires us to reinstate Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan prior to the conclusion of her suspension,” Adaramodu stated.
His clarification comes amid reports that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan plans to resume legislative duties the following Tuesday, citing a Federal High Court judgment by Justice Binta Nyako as the basis for her return.
However, Adaramodu explained that the ruling merely offered a non-binding advisory, recommending that the Senate consider amending its Standing Orders and reassessing the suspension, which the court deemed potentially excessive. He noted that the court did not find the Senate’s disciplinary action unlawful or unconstitutional.
“The court did not issue a mandatory directive for her recall,” he added. “Instead, it found Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt and imposed a ₦5 million fine. She was also ordered to issue a public apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page—orders which remain unfulfilled.”
The Senate spokesperson cautioned that any effort by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to reenter the chamber under a misinterpreted judgment would be seen as a challenge to the Senate’s authority and an obstruction of due process.
Adaramodu concluded by stating, “The Senate will review the court’s advisory at the appropriate time and communicate its decision. Until then, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is advised to respect due process and stay away from the National Assembly.”
