Natasha Set to Return to Senate After Suspension – Lawyer

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central is expected to resume duties at the National Assembly this month following the expiration of her six-month suspension.

Her lawyer, Victor Giwa, confirmed the development in an interview with The PUNCH in Abuja, noting that the lawmaker, who is currently on vacation in London, is prepared to rejoin her colleagues when the Senate reconvenes on September 23.

“Everything is in place. The suspension period has expired, and she’s ready to return. Even the Senate leadership has indicated readiness to receive her, so there’s no obstacle to her resumption,” Giwa said.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 after a row during plenary over her designated seat, with the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions recommending sanctions for alleged insubordination. The suspension also came with loss of salaries, aides, and office privileges.

She had insisted her suspension was politically motivated, linking it to her petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment — an allegation the Senate dismissed. She challenged her suspension in court and secured a ruling in her favour, though the Senate leadership insisted she would remain suspended until the six-month penalty lapsed.

An attempt to re-enter the chamber in July was thwarted by security operatives, despite support from her constituents.

With the suspension period now over, her lawyer expressed confidence that legal disputes surrounding her suspension would no longer pose a barrier.

Efforts to obtain comments from Senate officials were unsuccessful as at press ti