Former Kaduna lawmaker Shehu Sani has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the continued suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, warning that the Senate’s tactics could indefinitely stall her return.
In a post on social media, Sani argued that tying her resumption to a pending court case was a deliberate move to frustrate her comeback.
“If the pending court issues have to be resolved before the Kogi senator resumes, then the resumption has no date. Once a senator is suspended, the suspension dagger will be looking for the neck of any senator who wants to stand up and be another hero. That’s why you will see your opposition senators just pull back and chill,” he wrote.
Senate Blocks Natasha’s Return
On Tuesday, the National Assembly rejected Natasha’s notice of intention to resume plenary, insisting that her six-month suspension, which began on March 6, 2025, was still in force pending a judgment from the Court of Appeal.
In a letter signed by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr Yahaya Danzaria, the chamber maintained that no administrative action could be taken until the court rules on the matter.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, argued that her suspension expired on September 4, 2025, exactly six months after it began. However, the Senate insisted the case remained sub judice.
Why She Was Suspended
The suspension stemmed from allegations of insubordination after she rejected a seat change during plenary. Natasha has since claimed her sanction was politically motivated, linking it to her sexual harassment petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Despite securing a favourable judgment in court, she has repeatedly been blocked from re-entering the National Assembly.
Growing Political Tension
Sani’s comments highlight growing fears that Natasha’s suspension could set a precedent to silence other lawmakers who challenge Senate leadership.
The standoff continues to fuel debate over parliamentary privilege, women’s representation in politics, and the balance of power within Nigeria’s legislative chambers.
