Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has formally notified the National Assembly of her decision to resume legislative duties on Monday, July 22, 2025, maintaining that the Federal High Court judgment overturning her suspension is binding and must be implemented by the Senate without delay.
In a strong-worded letter addressed to the Clerk of the National Assembly and signed by her legal counsel, Michael Jonathan Numa (SAN), the senator faulted the Senate’s interpretation of the court’s decision as merely advisory, insisting that the judgment delivered on July 4, 2025, in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025, mandates her immediate recall.
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja had ruled that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension from the Senate was excessive, and ordered her reinstatement.
However, the Senate, through its Clerk, responded in a letter dated July 14, claiming that the court’s ruling lacked the force of a directive and did not compel immediate compliance.
Initially scheduled to return on July 14, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s resumption was delayed due to the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the subsequent suspension of plenary sessions. With plenary activities set to resume July 22, she has reiterated her resolve to rejoin Senate proceedings on that date.
Her legal team, however, challenged the Senate’s reading of the judgment. In the letter, Numa wrote:
“We must disagree with your interpretation of the enrolled Judgment Order. Specifically, we contest the view that the Court’s pronouncement… constitutes a mere advisory opinion rather than a binding directive.”
The letter emphasized that the judgment clearly carries the force of law, citing the opening words: “IT IS HEREBY ORDERED,” followed by twelve distinct orders—including one directing the Senate to recall the plaintiff. While the term “should” was used, the legal counsel argued that the overall structure and intent of the order conveyed a mandatory requirement.
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Numa further explained that the court had already adjudicated and ruled on all legal questions surrounding the senator’s suspension.
“The legality of the suspension was vigorously contested by all parties… The judgment conveys clear binding judicial determinations within the meaning of Section 318 of the Constitution,” the letter stated.
Referencing Section 287(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, the letter made clear that:
“The Senate is bound to enforce and give effect to the decision of the Court. Compliance with the judgment is not subject to further deliberation or discretion by the Senate.”
The legal team concluded by urging the National Assembly to comply without delay or face further legal action:
“We trust you will act promptly in fidelity to the Rule of Law… Our client reserves the right to pursue all lawful measures to enforce her rights should this demand continue to be disregarded.”
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s expected return to the Red Chamber on July 22 will mark the end of a legal and political standoff that began with her controversial suspension earlier in 2025. The case has sparked nationwide debate over legislative powers, judicial authority, and constitutional supremacy.
Her reinstatement—if honored—would also signal a reaffirmation of the judiciary’s role in safeguarding democratic principles and ensuring elected representatives are not unjustly silenced.