Natasha embarks on UK trip, to rejoin senate as suspension ends

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central will return to her legislative duties later this month following the expiration of her six-month suspension, her lawyer has said.

Her counsel, Victor Giwa, said that the lawmaker, who is currently in London, United Kingdom, has already scheduled her comeback when the Senate resumes plenary on September 23.

“Actually, she’s ready to resume her term. She’s in London. Everything is in place, and the six months have expired. The only thing left is her resumption,” Giwa said.

He further noted that the leadership of the upper chamber was not expected to block her reinstatement. “We have been told that even the leadership of the Senate is ready to welcome her. So that’s the situation at the moment. There is no obstacle at all,” he assured.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 over alleged insubordination after refusing to vacate her seat during plenary. The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions recommended the disciplinary action, which also stripped her of official aides, salary, and office rights.

The senator, however, has repeatedly linked her ordeal to a petition she filed accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment — an allegation the Senate dismissed.

Although she challenged her suspension in court and obtained a judgment she described as favourable, the Senate leadership insisted she must serve out the full six-month term.

Her attempt to return to the chamber in July ended in confrontation when security operatives blocked her entry despite a show of support from her followers outside the complex.

With the sanction now expired, her lawyer maintained that no legal issue would delay her return. “Everything will be resolved. Even the court cases will become like an academic exercise,” Giwa stated.

Efforts to reach Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu and Akpabio’s media aide for comment were unsuccessful.

(PUNCH)