Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the suspended Kogi Central senator has declared her intention to return to the Senate on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, following a Federal High Court judgment that nullified her suspension and ordered her immediate reinstatement. The development has sparked renewed legal and political debate, as the Senate awaits the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment before taking official action.
The Senate, through its spokesperson and Chairman of the Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu, confirmed that although its legal representatives were present during the ruling delivered on July 4, the full judgment was not publicly read. As a result, the upper chamber has filed a formal request for the CTC to allow proper legal interpretation.
“Pending receipt and examination of the CTC, and acting on the advice of counsel, the Senate shall refrain from taking any steps that may prejudice its legal position,” Adaramodu stated. He also emphasized that since no enrolled order had been served to any party, the enforcement process remains on hold.
Despite the Senate’s position, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan announced her intention to resume legislative functions in a viral video on Sunday. She expressed gratitude to her supporters, saying, “I thank you for your support. I am glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God.”
Justice Binta Nyako, who delivered the ruling, declared the suspension unconstitutional, noting that it deprived the people of Kogi Central of their constitutional right to representation. However, the court also found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt over a Facebook post that mocked Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The post, deemed to have violated a standing court injunction against public commentary on the case, led to a ₦5 million fine against her.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was originally suspended in March 2025 following a heated Senate session involving a seating dispute. The matter escalated when she publicly accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment during a live television appearance.
In reaction to her planned return, the Kogi Renaissance Group has urged caution. In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Segun Faniyi, the group warned against any attempt by the senator to forcefully re-enter the Senate chamber. “Such a move would escalate tensions, disrespect the judiciary, and undermine the legislative institution,” Faniyi said.
The group, which had earlier supported the senator, admitted its position was based on incomplete information. It has since reviewed its stance following the court’s detailed judgment. “We now recognise the need for restraint and adherence to due process,” the group stated, while also issuing an apology to the Senate and its leadership.
As legal and political observers await the next steps, all eyes remain on the Senate and whether Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan will be officially reinstated following the delivery of the judgment’s CTC.
