Introduction
The controversy over Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension deepened on Tuesday as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), and rights groups strongly condemned the Senate’s decision to bar her from resuming on September 23.
Senate Insists on Suspension Until Court Judgment
In a September 4 letter, the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr Yahaya Danzaria, informed Natasha that her six-month suspension, imposed on March 6, remains in effect until the Court of Appeal rules on her case. This decision dashed hopes of her immediate return despite serving out the penalty.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 after the Senate’s Ethics and Privileges Committee accused her of insubordination during plenary. The suspension stripped her of salaries, aides, and office privileges. She has consistently maintained the move was politically motivated, linking it to a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Why Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Was Suspended
PDP Condemns Senate’s Action
The PDP, through its spokesman Debo Ologunagba, accused the APC-led Senate of stifling opposition voices and denying the people of Kogi Central representation. The party described the action as a threat to democracy and urged international organizations to intervene.
Senior Advocates of Nigeria React
Several SANs—including Adedayo Adedeji, Wale Balogun, Paul Obi, and Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa—faulted the Senate’s decision. They argued that Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had already served her suspension and should be allowed to resume immediately. They stressed that prolonging her absence undermines constitutional rights and representation.
SERAP Demands Immediate Resumption
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) also condemned the move, warning that preventing Natasha from resuming violates Nigeria’s Constitution and international human rights laws. The group insisted that the Senate must pay her outstanding salaries and allowances.
Divided Opinions Among Legal Experts
While most SANs opposed the decision, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN) maintained that the Senate and Natasha should await the outcome of their ongoing appeals.
Conclusion
The Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan suspension has sparked a fierce legal and political debate, with opposition parties, SANs, and rights groups accusing the Senate of undermining democracy. Whether the Court of Appeal will uphold her suspension or pave the way for her return remains a matter of national interest.
