Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has formally notified the Clerk of the National Assembly of her intention to resume legislative duties on Monday, July 22, 2025, in compliance with a Federal High Court judgment ordering her recall.
The Senator, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended earlier this year, but a ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja on July 4 declared the suspension excessive and unconstitutional. The court also ordered her immediate recall to continue representing her constituents.
Despite the court’s verdict, the Senate, through its Clerk, had earlier described the judgment as advisory and non-binding. However, in a fresh letter dated July 16 and signed by her legal counsel, Michael Jonathan Numa (SAN), Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan firmly rejected this interpretation.
“We must disagree with your interpretation of the enrolled Judgment Order. Specifically, we contest the view that the Court’s pronouncement constitutes a mere advisory opinion rather than a binding directive,” the letter stated.
The letter highlighted that the judgment contained clear and enforceable directives, particularly referencing Order 12 which stated that “the Senate should recall the Plaintiff.” While the term “should” was used, her legal team argued that the overall context of the judgment implies a mandatory obligation.
The legal team also noted that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension had been challenged throughout the court proceedings as unconstitutional and in violation of Senate rules. The court’s composite judgment, which incorporated a mandatory injunction, set aside the suspension, making it legally null and void under Section 1(3) of the Constitution.
Quoting judicial precedent, the letter emphasized that the court’s orders are binding and enforceable under Section 287(3) of the Nigerian Constitution, and cannot be subject to further debate or discretion by the Senate.
“In light of the foregoing, we respectfully urge you to revisit the enrolled order and advise the Senate to comply accordingly,” the letter added.
The Senator also announced her readiness to resume plenary on July 22, following the Senate’s adjournment after the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team has warned that failure to comply with the judgment would leave their client no option but to pursue all lawful means to enforce her constitutional rights.
