“No Administrative Action Can Be Taken to Facilitate Your Resumption,” National Assembly Tells Senator Natasha

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has remained at the center of public attention since accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment.

Earlier this year, Akpoti-Uduaghan refused to change seats during plenary, which she described as a ploy to belittle and alienate her. The issue escalated, and she filed a petition against Akpabio. The Senate Ethics Committee dismissed the petition on procedural grounds, calling it “dead on arrival.”

Soon after her petition, charges of misconduct were brought against her, leading to her suspension. Akpoti-Uduaghan challenged the decision in court, and in July 2025, the Court of Appeal ruled the suspension excessive, reducing it to six months. She was also fined 5 million naira ($3,250) for contempt and barred from re-entering the National Assembly due to the ongoing appeal.

After serving her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted a request to resume her legislative duties but the National Assembly formally rejected the request.

In a letter dated Sept. 4, 2025, Acting Clerk to the National Assembly Dr. Yahaya Danzaria acknowledged her notification of intent to return but clarified that her suspension took effect on March 6, 2025. The letter further stressed that the matter remains sub judice.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, which began on March 6, was based on recommendations of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions. The action stripped her of aides, office privileges, and salaries. The senator has consistently maintained that her ordeal stems from her petition against Akpabio, a claim the Senate has denied.

The controversy surrounding Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked wider debates on gender, accountability, and power in Nigerian politics. As this case continues to unfold, it highlights the urgent need for transparency and fairness in the National Assembly.