NBA URGES SENATE TO ALLOW NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN RETURN TO CHAMBER AFTER SUSPENSION LAPSE

The Nigerian Bar Association has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to allow Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan return to the Senate Chamber following the expiration of her six-month suspension. NBA President Afam Osigwe SAN emphasized that the suspension period has ended, and she should be permitted to resume her duties regardless of the pending court case.

“First, the suspension was for six months. Challenging the correctness of that decision in court is separate from the expiration of the suspension period,” Osigwe stated. “If the suspension has ended, she can return, regardless of whether the Senate was right or wrong in suspending her. The Senate cannot use the pending appeal to deprive her of her seat once the actual suspension has ended.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 after the Senate adopted a committee report finding she violated rules by refusing to vacate her seat, following her accusation of sexual harassment against Akpabio. The suspension stripped her of security, salary, aides and privileges.

“The Senate should act honourably and allow her to resume, so that her constituents are not left unrepresented,” Osigwe urged. “While the court determines whether the Senate was justified in suspending her, the lapse of six months should allow her to return”.

A Federal High Court ruled the suspension excessive and unconstitutional, ordering her recall, but the Senate hasn’t complied. After her suspension ended, Akpoti-Uduaghan notified the Senate of her intent to resume, but acting NASS Clerk Yahaya Danzaria cited the pending appeal, stating “the matter remains sub judice”.