Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has explained her decision to delay her return to the Senate despite a court ruling declaring her suspension unconstitutional.
In an interview with AIT (African Independent Television), the senator said she is waiting for the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment before making her next move, acting based on legal advice and in respect of due process.
Her suspension, which was recently nullified by a court, had sparked controversy and led to increased tension around the National Assembly when she announced plans to resume on Tuesday. Security was beefed up within the complex, with cars being searched thoroughly.
While the court called her suspension “excessive and unconstitutional,” a legal opinion by Senate counsel, Paul Daudu, SAN, dated July 5, argued that the ruling did not contain an enforceable directive to reinstate her.
Despite her absence from the Senate chambers, Senator Natasha maintained that she has remained active in her constituency, delivering democratic dividends and pushing forward her legislative agenda.
“I remained active throughout. I can’t hand over my bills to anyone,” she said.
She also expressed concern over her continued exclusion from Senate duties, saying it was not just an issue for Kogi Central, but for Nigerian women and children.
“By keeping me out of the chambers, the Senate is not just silencing Kogi Central—it’s denying Nigerian women and children representation. We are only three female senators now, down from eight,” she said.
Senator Natasha restated her commitment to serving the people of Kogi and Nigeria at large, whether inside or outside the National Assembly.
“I believe in the judiciary. I’m not giving up,” she added.