Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Returns to National Assembly After Court Victory
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan will return to the National Assembly on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, following a court ruling that overturned her controversial six-month suspension. The Kogi Central representative was suspended on March 6, 2025, after a heated altercation with fellow senators.
A federal court ruled the Senate’s suspension was “overreaching” and “excessive,” marking a significant victory for the embattled lawmaker. The judicial decision effectively cuts short what would have been a lengthy absence from legislative duties.
The March suspension stemmed from a confrontational incident during Senate proceedings, though specific details of the altercation remain unclear. Senate leadership imposed the six-month penalty, citing disruption of parliamentary order and conduct unbecoming of a senator.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents approximately 1.2 million constituents in Kogi Central, immediately challenged the suspension through legal channels. Her legal team argued the Senate exceeded its constitutional authority in imposing such lengthy punishment without proper due process.
The court’s intervention highlights ongoing tensions between legislative discipline and judicial oversight of parliamentary procedures. This case sets a precedent for how courts may review Senate disciplinary actions in future disputes.
The senator’s return comes at a crucial time, as the National Assembly prepares to debate key legislation affecting Nigeria’s economic policies. Her presence could influence voting patterns on several pending bills scheduled for consideration this month.
