The Nigerian Senate has explained why it cannot yet reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended in March 2025.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, said the Senate is awaiting the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Federal High Court judgment that ordered her reinstatement.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended on March 6 following allegations of sexual harassment she made against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. Her suspension followed recommendations from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imasuen.
However, a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, last week ruled that her suspension was unconstitutional and ordered the Senate to reinstate her. The court also fined her ₦5 million for contempt.
Despite the court ruling, Senator Adaramodu said the Senate needs to receive and review the official judgment before taking any action. “We applied for the CTC on Monday. Once we receive and study it, the Senate will take a position based on its content,” he said.
He further explained that the Senate must operate within its rules, which allow it to discipline members who violate its Standing Orders. “If it is established that a senator has erred, the Senate has the authority to reprimand such a member,” Adaramodu added.
He also clarified that the 180-day suspension includes non-parliamentary days, noting that only those familiar with legislative procedures can fully understand how the system operates.
Until the court’s full judgment is reviewed, the Senate says it cannot reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
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