By Andrew Haruna | Nigeria News Today

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has finally spoken out about the controversial suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, shedding light on how the issue could have been resolved without escalating into a public saga.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended in March 2025 for alleged misconduct. Despite a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, which she claimed invalidated the suspension, the Senate has repeatedly blocked her return to plenary.

Court Did Not Reinstate Senator, Akpabio’s Aide Says

Akpabio’s media aide, Kenny Okolugbo, released a statement clarifying the legal situation. He cited Ground 23 of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s appeal in the case Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan v. Clerk of the National Assembly & Others, which acknowledged that the suspension was “excessive” but not outright nullified by the court.

“This clearly shows that her claim of being reinstated by the court is misleading,” Okolugbo stated.

He further explained that had the senator issued a public apology, her suspension would have been lifted. “Even the Brekete Family, a popular public advocacy group, encouraged her to apologise. But she declined,” he added.

A Missed Opportunity to End the Crisis

Okolugbo described Akpoti-Uduaghan’s July 22 return attempt to the Senate as a political spectacle. He said her arrival, flanked by supporters and camera crews, turned the event into a media show rather than a formal return to duty.

“The Senate is not a reality TV stage. There are rules that guide its operation,” he said.

Despite her absence from the chamber, he reassured constituents that legislative work for Kogi Central has not been abandoned. He referenced continued progress on bills she had initiated, including one to establish a Federal Medical Centre in Ihima.

Gender Politics and the Danger of Misrepresentation

In a more critical tone, Okolugbo warned that the ongoing controversy could harm the image of women in Nigerian politics. With just four female senators in the current National Assembly, he emphasized the need for integrity and accountability.

“Weaponising gender and twisting the truth for political advantage sets back the fight for representation,” he concluded.

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