Senate upholds Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension until recess ends

The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed that the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, remains in effect and will not be lifted until the National Assembly reconvenes from its current recess in two months.

This position was disclosed by the Senate spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, during an interview on Politics Today, a political programme aired on Channels Television.

His clarification came just hours after the suspended lawmaker attempted to return to legislative duties at the National Assembly complex in Abuja but was prevented from doing so.

“The Senator is still suspended, and it will remain so till the Senate resumes back from recess in two months,” Adaramodu stated.

He further emphasized that the Senate is a serious legislative body, not an avenue for theatrics or dramatization.

“The Senate and the National Assembly as a whole have a role to play. We are legislators, not spectators watching skit-making or content creation. Initially, content was created, and now it’s degenerating into seasoned films,” he added, in an apparent reference to the ongoing controversy surrounding the lawmaker’s suspension.

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 following what was described as a violation of Senate rules. Her suspension stemmed from a heated confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seat arrangements in the chamber.

The conflict escalated after she publicly accused Akpabio of sexual misconduct—an allegation he has vehemently denied.

Despite the Senate’s decision, Senator Natasha attempted to resume plenary duties on Tuesday, July 22, but was denied access, reaffirming the chamber’s resolve to uphold the disciplinary action until further notice.

While the controversy continues to generate debate across political and civic spaces, the Senate has maintained that the suspension was a procedural response to disorderly conduct and breach of parliamentary decorum.

The red chamber has not indicated any plans to revisit the matter before its scheduled resumption later in the year.

As reactions mount, political observers are watching to see whether the issue will resurface when lawmakers return, or if it will remain a defining standoff between the embattled senator and the leadership of the upper legislative chamber.