The lawmaker representing Kogi Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, is expected to return to the National Assembly this month following the conclusion of her six-month suspension.
Her legal counsel, Victor Giwa, confirmed that all necessary steps have been taken to facilitate her return when the Senate reconvenes on September 23.
“Everything is in place, and the six months have expired. The only thing left is her resumption,” Giwa stated, adding that the Senate leadership is not expected to hinder her return.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 over allegations of insubordination after she reportedly resisted a reassignment of her designated seat during plenary.
The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, which recommended the disciplinary action, also stripped her of legislative privileges including aides, salaries, and office entitlements.
Throughout the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that the action against her was politically motivated. She linked the suspension to her petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment—an allegation that was ultimately dismissed by the Senate.
Although a court ruling had favoured her reinstatement, the Senate insisted that she must serve the full duration of the suspension.
An earlier attempt by the senator to resume her duties in July was met with resistance, as security personnel barred her entry into the National Assembly premises.
Now that the suspension period has lapsed, her legal team believes that outstanding legal proceedings will no longer interfere with her legislative mandate.
“Even the court cases will become like an academic exercise,” Giwa said.
