I Lack Powers to Recall Natasha, National Assembly Clerk’s Office Clarifies

The Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly has clarified that it does not have the authority to determine whether Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan can resume her legislative duties following a six-month suspension.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Director of Information, Mullah Bi-Allah, emphasized that the Clerk’s office is merely an administrative arm of the legislature and lacks the power to review or overturn Senate decisions.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended by the Senate on March 6, 2025. Despite the suspension’s expiration, her return to duty hinges on a fresh Senate resolution or a court order, given the ongoing appeal court proceedings.

The lawmaker had written to the Clerk of the National Assembly on September 4, notifying the office of her intention to resume her duties.

The Clerk’s office conveyed the matter to the Senate leadership, which noted that the case remains sub judice and that any change in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s status must come from a definitive court order or a new Senate resolution.

The office stressed that it cannot facilitate her resumption without these developments.

The National Assembly’s stance comes amid a petition from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team, accusing the Clerk’s office of overreach and threatening disciplinary action.

The office reaffirmed its commitment to constitutionalism, institutional respect, and the rule of law, urging the public to allow the Senate and courts to resolve the matter.