The Nigerian Senate has warned Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan not to return to the legislative chamber until her suspension officially ends.
This statement followed media reports suggesting that she might resume on Tuesday, July 22, based on a recent court ruling.
Senator Yemi Adaramodu, who serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, said the court did not issue any directive forcing the Senate to lift her suspension.
According to him, Justice Binta Nyako’s ruling only advised the Senate to review its Standing Orders. It did not compel the immediate recall of the suspended senator.
Senate Cites Legal and Procedural Grounds
Adaramodu emphasized that the Senate did not violate any constitutional provision when it suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan.
He clarified that the Senate acted within its rights and followed proper legislative procedures.
He also pointed out that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has already taken the matter to the Court of Appeal.
She filed a motion for stay of execution, which means the case is still ongoing. Given this, any attempt by her to return would disrupt Senate order and processes.
Contempt of Court Judgment Still Stands
In a surprising revelation, Adaramodu noted that the same Federal High Court found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt.
The court ordered her to pay ₦5 million to the Federal Government.
She was also instructed to apologize publicly in two national newspapers and on her official Facebook page. So far, she has not complied with this ruling.
The Senate described her planned return as premature and misleading.
Adaramodu urged her to wait for the legal process to conclude instead of acting unilaterally.
Senate Vows to Maintain Legislative Discipline
Adaramodu warned that if Akpoti-Uduaghan attempts to enter the chamber on Tuesday without formal reinstatement, the Senate will treat it as a deliberate violation.
He said such actions would amount to legislative disorder.
He concluded that the Senate will issue an official response to the court’s recommendation at the appropriate time. Until then, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan must respect the decision and stay away from the chamber.
