Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Challenges National Assembly’s Suspension, Threatens Legal Action; NLC Warns Against Legislative Dictatorship
In a political standoff that has gripped Nigeria’s democratic space, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has formally challenged the National Assembly’s decision to reject her resumption following a six-month suspension. The senator, suspended in March 2025 over allegations of insubordination linked to a seating dispute and her accusations of sexual harassment against the Senate President, insists her suspension term has ended. However, the National Assembly maintains that her suspension remains valid and continues to bar her from legislative duties, setting the stage for potential legal action.
The impasse escalated after the National Assembly, through a letter dated September 4, 2025, from Acting Clerk Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, notified Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan that her six-month suspension, which started on March 6, remained in force. The letter emphasized that the issue is sub judice, pending a Court of Appeal ruling, and stated, “Until the judicial process is concluded, no administrative action can be taken to facilitate your resumption.”
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended following a Senate ethics committee recommendation, has dismissed this determination, citing a recent favorable court judgment and asserting her right to occupy the seat mandated by her constituents. Her legal counsel, Victor Giwa, revealed that the senator plans to resume her duties when the Senate convenes on September 23, 2025.
The conflict began when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan publicly accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, a claim he vehemently denied. Shortly thereafter, she faced suspension for what the Senate described as “gross misconduct” related to insubordination, including her refusal to comply with a seating reassignment during plenary sessions. This suspension included the withdrawal of her salary, security details, and office privileges.
Reflecting the deep political divide, civil society and labor organizations have cast stern warnings against what they describe as “legislative dictatorship.” The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), in a recent statement, stood in support of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, condemning the National Assembly’s refusal to allow her resumption as an affront to democratic principles and the rights of the electorate. The NLC warned that an unchecked legislative body undermining the rule of law would set a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
Legal experts weigh in on the legal limbo surrounding the suspension, pointing out that while legislative bodies possess the authority to discipline their members, such powers must align with constitutional safeguards. Professor Ifeoma Okoye, a constitutional law expert, stated, “The continued suspension without judicial resolution risks infringing on the democratic representation of Kogi Central’s constituents and could provoke judicial intervention,” underscoring the potential for the courts to uphold the senator’s right to sit.
The standoff has tangible impacts beyond legislative halls. Constituents from Kogi Central have expressed frustration over the absence of their elected representative at critical National Assembly votes and committee activities. Political analysts suggest the saga reflects broader tensions within Nigeria’s legislative processes, where factional interests and executive influence can disrupt legislative independence.
Looking ahead, the senator’s threatened legal action may provide a pivotal test of the separation of powers in Nigeria, potentially prompting the judiciary to assert limits on legislative autonomy. Meanwhile, the National Assembly faces growing pressure to clarify its stance and uphold democratic norms by either upholding the suspension with transparent due process or facilitating the senator’s return.
As Nigeria watches closely, this unfolding conflict spotlights fundamental questions about accountability, justice, and the rights of elected officials versus institutional authority, with possible implications for the integrity of Nigeria’s legislative democracy.
