The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called on the Senate to allow suspended senator for Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, to resume her legislative duties, insisting that her six-month suspension has lapsed.
NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), told The PUNCH on Wednesday that the pendency of her legal challenge should not prevent her return to the chamber.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, after the Senate adopted the report of its Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, which found that she violated Senate rules by refusing to vacate her assigned seat during plenary. The suspension also stripped her of her salary, aides, and office privileges.
Legal Challenge and the Senate’s Position
The lawmaker challenged the suspension at the Federal High Court and later appealed the judgment delivered by Justice Binta Nyako.
Despite completing her suspension period in September, the Senate, through a letter dated September 4 and signed by acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, informed her that the suspension would remain in effect until the Court of Appeal delivers judgment on her suit.
“The matter remains sub judice, and until the judicial process is concluded, no administrative action can be taken to facilitate your resumption,” the letter stated.
NBA’s Reaction
The NBA, however, faulted the Senate’s stance, stressing that litigation should not be used to extend her suspension.
Osigwe said:
“First, the suspension was for six months. Challenging the correctness of that decision in court is separate from the expiration of the suspension period. If the suspension has ended, she can return, regardless of whether the Senate was right or wrong in suspending her.
“The Senate cannot use the pending appeal to deprive her of her seat once the actual suspension has ended. That is not a good position for the Senate to adopt. The Senate should act honourably and allow her to resume, so that her constituents are not left unrepresented.”
Background
The controversy continues to stir debate among legal experts, with many arguing that prolonged suspension of elected lawmakers undermines representation and democracy.
