Senate Awaits Certified True Copy of Judgment, Can’t Reinstate Natasha Yet, Explains Spokesperson

The Nigerian Senate has stated that it cannot immediately reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan despite a Federal High Court ruling nullifying her six-month suspension. This clarification was made by the Senate spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, who stressed that due process must be followed before any action can be taken. Speaking to reporters on Sunday , Adaramodu explained that the Senate is yet to receive the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court judgment and cannot act on media reports or unofficial sources. “We have formally requested the CTC of the judgment. The Senate, as a law-abiding institution, will thoroughly study the document once it is received before taking any position,” he said. The Federal High Court in Abuja had earlier declared the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as unconstitutional, excessive, and a violation of her fundamental rights. The court ruled that the Kogi Central senator should be reinstated immediately and awarded ₦5 million against the Senate for contempt of court. However, the Senate maintains that it cannot act on verbal or media pronouncements. Adaramodu noted that while the court’s decision is respected, the internal procedures of the Senate, including the Ethics and Privileges Committee, must also be considered. “Until we receive the official copy of the judgment and review its contents, any call for reinstatement is premature. The Senate operates under its rules and must adhere to its Standing Orders,” he added. Senator Natasha was suspended on March 6, 2025, after she accused the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, of marginalizing opposition lawmakers in the allocation of constituency projects. The Senate’s disciplinary action included barring her from plenary sessions, withdrawing her salaries, security personnel, and access to the National Assembly complex. Following the court ruling, Senator Natasha formally petitioned the Senate leadership demanding her immediate reinstatement. In her petition, she described her suspension as a political witch-hunt and a suppression of her legislative duties. Despite the legal victory, the Senate has remained cautious in its response. The leadership insists that reinstatement will only be discussed when the court judgment is officially received and reviewed. Natasha, however, has expressed her intention to resume legislative duties by Tuesday, July 15, citing the court order as her legal backing. Observers have criticized the Senate’s delay, describing it as a deliberate attempt to frustrate the court’s decision. Civil society groups and human rights advocates have urged the National Assembly to respect judicial authority and avoid undermining the rule of law. As the legal and political drama continues to unfold, attention remains on the Senate’s next steps and whether Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan will be allowed to return to her seat without further delay.