The Senate has dismissed reports suggesting a court order has mandated the immediate recall of suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. It warned that any attempt by her to return to plenary without official clearance would be premature and disruptive.
The clarification comes after Senator Natasha publicly cited a judgment by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, as grounds for her planned return to the Senate chamber.
However, in a statement on Saturday, Senate spokesperson Senator Yemi Adaramodu insisted that no enforceable court directive exists requiring her immediate reinstatement.
“For the third time, we categorically state: there is no existing court order directing the Senate to immediately reinstate Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan,” the statement said.
Adaramodu noted that while the court offered an advisory opinion suggesting a review of the Senate’s Standing Orders and calling the suspension potentially excessive, it upheld the Senate’s constitutional power to discipline members for misconduct.
He added that Senator Natasha was also found guilty of contempt of court and fined ₦5 million, with instructions to issue a public apology through two national newspapers and on her Facebook page—none of which she has complied with.
The Senate further criticized Natasha’s intent to return despite having filed an appeal and a motion for a stay of execution, calling it “legally unfounded.”
Adaramodu warned the lawmaker against entering the chamber on Tuesday under what he described as false pretences, stating that such an act would undermine legislative integrity and due process.
The Senate, however, said it would review the court’s advisory elements, including possible amendments to its Standing Orders and the status of her suspension, at the appropriate time. Until then, Natasha has been advised to stay away from the Senate floor.
