The Nigerian Senate has issued a stern warning to suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, advising her to refrain from any attempt to resume legislative duties until her suspension expires. The warning came on Sunday through a statement by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu.
Adaramodu made it clear that the Nigerian Senate is not under any legal compulsion to allow Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan back to the Red Chamber at this time. He categorically denied the existence of any valid court order mandating her immediate recall, contrary to media reports that quoted the lawmaker claiming a judicial mandate based on a ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja.
Court Ruling Was Advisory, Not Binding
Clarifying the legal position, Adaramodu emphasized that the Federal High Court judgment in question did not issue a mandatory or positive directive to the Senate. According to him, the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Enrolled Order reveals that the court only offered an advisory opinion, suggesting the Senate may consider reviewing the suspension and amending its Standing Orders — a suggestion not legally enforceable.
“The Honourable Court gave a non-binding advisory urging the Nigerian Senate to consider amending its Standing Orders and reviewing the suspension, which it opined might be excessive,” Adaramodu explained. “However, the court explicitly held that the Senate did not breach any law or constitutional provision in imposing the disciplinary measure.”
This clarification contradicts the narrative being promoted by the suspended lawmaker, who has declared her intention to resume plenary activities on Tuesday, July 23.
Contempt Ruling Against Akpoti-Uduaghan
Adding further context, the Nigerian Senate spokesman reminded the public that the same court ruling found Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt. As part of her penalties, the court imposed a ₦5 million fine payable to the Federal Government and mandated a public apology to be published in two national newspapers as well as on her Facebook page — a directive the lawmaker has allegedly failed to fulfill.
“It is therefore surprising and legally untenable that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, while on appeal and having filed a motion for stay against the valid and binding orders made against her, is attempting to act upon an imaginary order of recall that does not exist,” Adaramodu noted.
The Nigerian Senate views her stated intention to return without formal clearance as both disruptive and contrary to legislative procedures.
Nigerian Senate Reiterates Commitment to Rule of Law
Despite the brewing controversy, the Senate reaffirmed its commitment to due process and respect for the judiciary. Adaramodu assured Nigerians that the Senate will review the court’s advisory opinions at the appropriate time and will determine the next steps through proper legislative channels.
“The Nigerian Senate will, at the appropriate time, consider the advisory opinion of the court on both amending the Standing Orders of the Senate, her recall, and communicate the same thereof to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan,” he said.
Until that process is complete, the lawmaker is expected to comply fully with the terms of her suspension and refrain from any further attempts to re-enter the National Assembly complex prematurely.
Security Concerns Ahead of Tuesday’s Plenary
As tension builds ahead of Tuesday’s session, concerns have been raised over the potential for confrontation should Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan attempt to “storm” the Senate in defiance of the current directive. The Senate has warned that such a move would be interpreted as an act of legislative defiance and would not be tolerated.
Adaramodu concluded, “She is respectfully advised to stay away from the Senate chambers and allow due process to run its full course.” The statement serves as both a political and legal barrier against any dramatic re-entry by the embattled senator until all internal and judicial matters are resolved.
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