Senate Outlines Requirements for Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Return After Court Orders Reinstatement
The Nigerian Senate has stated that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reinstatement hinges on certain conditions, despite a Federal High Court ruling that her six-month suspension was excessive. Justice Binta Nyako, presiding in Abuja, directed the Senate to reinstate the Kogi Central lawmaker, but Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu clarified that compliance would not be automatic.
Adaramodu stressed that while the court upheld the Senate’s authority to discipline members, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan must first meet specific requirements, including issuing a formal apology and making restitution. “The court did not strip the Senate of its disciplinary powers,” he said. “Her reinstatement will only be considered after she fulfills the court’s directives.”
The Senate’s legal team, led by Paul Dauda (SAN), described the ruling as a partial win, noting that the court dismissed claims of contempt related to the senator’s social media posts. However, she was ordered to retract a satirical apology, publish a proper one in two national newspapers, and pay ₦5 million in damages. Dauda emphasized that the judge’s suggestion to lift the suspension was merely an opinion, not a binding order.
Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar applauded the court’s decision, commending Akpoti-Uduaghan for standing up against what he called an unfair suspension. “I salute Justice Nyako’s boldness and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s resilience in seeking justice,” Atiku wrote on X.
The Senate is expected to review the case once Akpoti-Uduaghan complies with the court’s conditions, leaving the final decision on her return pending further deliberations.
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