ABUJA, July 16, 2025 — Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central remains at the center of political and legal controversy as developments surrounding her suspension and Senate roles continue to unfold. From a court-ordered reinstatement to fresh committee shakeups, her position in the National Assembly has drawn widespread attention.
Here are seven critical developments you need to know:
1. Court Declares Suspension Unlawful
On July 4, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, ruled that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension was unconstitutional and excessive. The court ordered the Senate to immediately reinstate her.
2. Senate Delays Action, Citing Lack of Official Notice
Despite the ruling, the Senate leadership claims it has not yet received the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment, a necessary document before taking any action.
3. Senator Awaits Court Documentation Before Returning
Akpoti-Uduaghan has stated she will wait for the official court documents and follow proper legal protocol before resuming plenary duties.
4. Removed as Chair of Diaspora & NGOs Committee
On July 10, Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced her removal as Chair of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs. She was replaced by Senator Aniekan Bassey.
5. No Explanation for Her Removal
The Senate did not provide a formal reason for her replacement. However, it comes amid unresolved issues from her suspension and internal Senate dynamics.
6. Follows Earlier Committee Shake-Up
This isn’t her first committee change. In February, Akpoti-Uduaghan was removed as Chair of the Local Content Committee, reportedly after raising concerns about a lack of accountability in oil and gas oversight.
7. Broader Implications for Senate Politics
Her case underscores growing tensions within the Senate over transparency, power dynamics, and gender representation. Many observers see her ongoing battles as emblematic of a wider political struggle.
As legal and political maneuvers continue, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s next steps—and the Senate’s response—will be closely watched across Nigeria.
