By Atoyebi Nike
Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has announced her intention to return to the Senate on Tuesday, following a Federal High Court ruling ordering her immediate reinstatement. The court declared her suspension unconstitutional and said it denied Kogi Central voters their right to representation.
However, the Senate has stated that it will take no action until it receives and reviews the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the July 4 judgment, according to a statement by Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs Chairman, Yemi Adaramodu.
“The Senate shall refrain from taking steps that may prejudice its legal position until the CTC is reviewed,” Adaramodu said.
While Akpoti-Uduaghan celebrated the ruling in a video shared online, thanking supporters and confirming her planned return, the court also found her guilty of contempt over a satirical Facebook post in violation of a prior injunction. Justice Binta Nyako imposed a N5 million fine for the breach.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in March 2025 following a chaotic plenary session, and the controversy deepened after she accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment on live TV.
In response to the ruling, the Kogi Renaissance Group cautioned the senator against any forceful re-entry, warning it could escalate tensions and disrespect judicial authority. The group, which initially backed her, has now reversed its position, urging restraint and adherence to legal procedure.
“The detailed court judgment has provided clarity,” said group spokesperson Segun Faniyi, who also apologised to the Senate and President Akpabio over past actions.
As the legal and political standoff continues, all eyes are on the Senate chamber ahead of Tuesday’s plenary.
