The Nigerian Bar Association has called out the Senate over its refusal to let Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, return to her seat after serving out a six-month suspension.
NBA President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), speaking on Wednesday, said the upper chamber was acting dishonourably by hiding under court proceedings to keep Natasha out.
Recall Natasha was suspended on March 6, 2025, for “violating Senate rules” after she refused to vacate her seat during plenary. The suspension stripped her of salary, aides, and office perks.
But after her six months elapsed, Natasha was ready to return, only for the Senate to slam the brakes again, citing her ongoing court case. In a September 4 letter, acting Clerk of the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, said her suspension “remains in effect” until the Court of Appeal rules on her suit.
The NBA disagrees.
Osigwe noted: “Her suspension has ended. Challenging the decision in court is different from serving the suspension. The Senate cannot hide behind a pending case to deny her seat. That is unfair to her and her constituents.”
He warned the Red Chamber to “act honourably” and let Natasha resume, insisting that Kogi Central deserves representation.
Source; PM News
