From Victor Osula, Abuja
The Senate has said it is yet to receive the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment that nullified the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, and ordered her immediate reinstatement.
The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, on Friday voided the Senate’s six-month suspension of the lawmaker, describing it as “excessive, unconstitutional, and a violation of her constituents’ rights.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended over alleged misconduct and breach of Senate rules. Her suspension included withdrawal of salary and entitlements, revocation of access to the National Assembly, and a directive to desist from identifying herself as a senator.
Delivering judgment, Justice Nyako ruled that the suspension, which effectively barred her from the chamber for six months, was not only excessive but also amounted to a denial of representation for her constituents. The judge further held that Chapter 8 of the Senate Standing Rules and Section 14 of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act relied upon for her suspension were “overreaching” and inconsistent with constitutional provisions.
In its official reaction on Sunday, the Senate, through its spokesperson and Chairman, Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, confirmed that although it was aware of the judgment, it had not yet been served with the CTC.
“The Senate acknowledges that judgment was delivered on July 4 by the Federal High Court, Abuja, in the case instituted by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. However, we are yet to be served with the Certified True Copy of the said judgment,” the statement read.
“Our legal representatives, who were present in court, have confirmed that the full judgment was not read in open court. The Senate has applied for the CTC to enable a comprehensive review and determine the appropriate legal response,” he added.
Adaramodu noted that it remained unclear whether the court issued an enforceable order nullifying the suspension, emphasizing that no party had served the Senate with an enrolled order.
“Until we receive and review the official CTC, the Senate will refrain from any action that may prejudice its legal position. We remain committed to upholding the rule of law and will act in accordance with the Constitution once the court’s decision is clear,” he said.
Meanwhile, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to resume plenary on Tuesday, July 8, in defiance of the Senate’s stance.
In a video message shared on social media, the embattled senator thanked her supporters for their unwavering backing and described the court ruling as a landmark victory for democracy.
“I am grateful for your steadfast support. I’m glad that we are victorious today. By God’s grace, I will resume at the Senate on Tuesday,” she said to cheering supporters.
