Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Sets Date to Resume Senate Duties

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, will return to plenary later this month following the expiration of her six-month suspension, her lawyer has confirmed.

Her counsel, Victor Giwa, told The Punch that the lawmaker is currently on vacation in London but has concluded plans to resume legislative duties when the Senate reconvenes on September 23.

“Actually, she’s ready to resume her term. She’s in London. Everything is in place, and the six months have expired. The only thing left is her resumption,” Giwa said.

He further noted that the Senate leadership was unlikely to obstruct her return, adding: “We have been told that even the leadership of the Senate is ready to welcome her. So that’s the situation at the moment. There is no obstacle at all.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 after rejecting a reassignment of her designated seat during plenary — an action deemed insubordination by the Senate. The disciplinary measure, recommended by the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, also stripped her of aides, office access, and remuneration.

The senator, however, insisted that her suspension was politically motivated and tied to her petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, an allegation the chamber dismissed. She challenged the decision in court and secured a favourable judgment, but Senate leadership maintained that the penalty would run its full six-month course.

In July, an attempt to re-enter the chamber led to a standoff, as security operatives prevented her from gaining access despite the presence of cheering supporters.

With her suspension now elapsed, Giwa maintained that legal disputes will not delay her return. “Everything will be resolved. Even the court cases will become like an academic exercise,” he assured.

Efforts to reach Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu and Akpabio’s media aide for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.