Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, has announced plans to return to the Senate on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, following a court ruling in her favour—despite an appeal lodged by Senate President Godswill Akpabio against the judgment.
Speaking during a training programme held in her constituency on Saturday, Akpoti-Uduaghan confirmed that she had formally written to the Senate, notifying them of her intention to resume plenary.
“I still have around two months before the six-month suspension period lapses. I’ve written once again to the Senate, informing them that I will be back on July 22, which falls on a Tuesday, by God’s grace,” she stated.
“I intend to be present, because the court made a decision on the matter. They can argue about whether it’s an order or not, but it remains a judicial decision,” she added.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended from the Senate in March over alleged misconduct. While the court recently ruled the suspension unlawful, the Senate has since appealed the verdict. However, the senator maintains that the appeal does not prevent her from returning to her duties.
She stressed that although her suspension didn’t stop her from executing constituency projects, it limited her capacity to fully perform legislative responsibilities, including sponsoring bills and presenting motions.
“Each senator has three main roles: legislative duties like making laws and reviewing treaties; oversight of ministries and agencies; and representation, which involves identifying the needs of constituents and ensuring they are addressed in the national budget,” she explained.
“I’ve continued representing my people and delivering on that front. Though I missed the chance to present my bills, I haven’t stopped working,” she noted.
With her planned return, political observers anticipate possible tensions in the Senate, as she insists on exercising her constitutional mandate, despite the ongoing legal challenge from Senate leadership.
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