Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has vowed to resume her legislative duties in the Nigerian Senate on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, following a tumultuous period marked by her six-month suspension.
The lawmaker, one of only four female senators in the 109-member chamber, announced her decision during a visit to her constituency, where she was overseeing a training program for local women. She confirmed having formally communicated her intentions to Senate President Godswill Akpabio via a letter, citing a recent Federal High Court ruling on July 4, 2025, by Justice Binta Nyako that declared her suspension unconstitutional and ordered her reinstatement. The suspension, imposed on March 6, 2025, stemmed from a contentious dispute over seating arrangements and her allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio, which he denies.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has faced significant backlash including the loss of security details and a N5 million fine for contempt over a satirical Facebook post, expressed gratitude to her supporters, stating, “I will be there, by the grace of God, as the court has affirmed my right to represent my people.” The resumption, however, is shadowed by an ongoing appeal from Akpabio challenging the court’s decision, raising tensions within the Senate.
Security has been heightened at the National Assembly complex, with additional personnel deployed to manage potential protests from both her supporters and detractors. The move underscores a broader struggle for gender equity in Nigeria’s male-dominated legislature, where her return could reignite debates over harassment and legislative discipline.
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