Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has reaffirmed her decision to resume her duties at the Senate on Tuesday, 22nd July 2025, in line with a court judgment—despite an appeal filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Speaking in her hometown of Ihima, Kogi State, on Saturday, she said:
“I have about two months left before the six-month period lapses. However, I’ve written to the Senate again, informing them that I’ll resume on the 22nd, by God’s grace. I will be there because the court gave a decision on this matter. While they claim it’s not an order, it is a clear judicial decision.”
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, currently in her constituency for an empowerment training programme, explained that although her suspension didn’t prevent her from engaging with constituents, it significantly hindered her primary legislative duties—particularly sponsoring bills and motions in the Senate.
She stated:
“Every senator has three core responsibilities: lawmaking, oversight of ministries and agencies, and representation. I’ve been fulfilling my representational duties by identifying my community’s challenges and ensuring they’re reflected in the federal budget. However, I’ve missed presenting bills, and that’s a major aspect of my job.”
She confirmed she had formally notified the Senate of her intention to return on Tuesday via a written letter.
The Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan on 6th March for allegedly breaching its rules. The suspension followed her accusation of sexual harassment against Senator Akpabio. She challenged the suspension in court, and in July, the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the Senate to lift the suspension and reinstate her.
Despite the ruling, Senate President Akpabio has appealed the decision and taken the case to the Court of Appeal in Abuja.