Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan of Kogi Central today made a high-stakes attempt to resume her legislative duties at the National Assembly following a Federal High Court ruling that annulled her six‑month suspension. On her side was a determined display of support — yet she was ultimately blocked at the gates.
A Determined Return
Arriving at the Assembly complex precisely at 12:20 p.m., Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stepped out of a black vehicle, flanked by human rights activist Aisha Yesufu and other fervent supporters. In a bold gesture, she walked on foot past initial security checkpoints — only to confront a second locked gate and was turned back by heavily armed personnel from the Police, DSS, NSCDC, and Sergeant‑at‑Arms.
She later addressed reporters outside, expressing deep disappointment and vowing to consult her legal team on the next steps.
Senate Pushback
The Senate maintains that no compulsory court order mandates her reinstatement before her suspension expires, reiterating its position through spokesman Yemi Adaramodu. His statement emphasized:
“There is no subsisting court order mandating the Senate to recall Senator Natasha… the judgment is advisory, not binding.”
Meanwhile, legal representatives for Akpoti‑Uduaghan assert that they have formally served the Senate with the certified judgment and have demanded prompt reinstatement based on Justice B.F.M. Nyako’s ruling.
Legal and Political Implications
- Court Ruling: On July 4, 2025, Justice Nyako declared her six‑month suspension unlawful and excessive, ruling it violated Section 63 of the Constitution and Senate Standing Orders. The judgment also fined her ₦5 million for contempt for a social media post.
- Senate’s Stance: The upper chamber contends the court’s directive is not binding, advising her to await Senate action — not taken yet — based on a “non‑binding advisory.”
- Senator’s Position: Akpoti‑Uduaghan asserts her return is lawful and necessary given the court’s decision. She previously indicated intention to resume on July 15, later postponed pending Certified True Copy receipt.
Public Reaction
The scene sparked public and online discourse. Commenters highlighted concerns over institutional defiance:
“The NASS should obey court order… As a lawmaking institution they’re expected to lead by example.”
Other voices applauded her courage:
“I so much love this woman… she’s performing her constitutional duties and there ain’t no stopping her.”
Why It Matters
- Judiciary vs Legislature: The clash over whether a judicial ruling can compel legislative action raises urgent questions of separation of powers.
- Constituents’ Representation: With her barred entry, Kogi Central’s electorate lacks representation — a key argument cited in court.
- Gender Balance in Politics: Akpoti-Uduaghan’s struggle spotlights the marginalization of women in Nigeria’s legislature — she remains one of only three female senators.
What Happens Next?
- Legal Team Actions: Her lawyers have now formally demanded compliance from Senate leadership, backed by the court-certified judgment.
- Senate Response: The chamber must deliberate whether to honor the court’s recommendation or await further judicial clarification.
- Potential Escalation: A legal confrontation on recall enforcement could ensue if the Senate continues to defy the court, potentially prompting appeals or contempt proceedings.
Bottom Line
Today marked a dramatic stand-off at the National Assembly gates — a physically barred entry that reflects a deeper constitutional contention. As Akpoti‑Uduaghan and her legal team press their case, the Senate faces a critical decision: respect the judiciary’s authority or chart its own path, with profound implications for democracy and women’s rights in Nigeria.
By
