Senate President Akpabio Slams Senator Natasha, Demands Apology Over Court Reinstatement Claims
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has issued a stern warning to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, insisting that she tender a public apology following her controversial attempt to return to the Senate chamber despite her suspension.
Akpabio, through his media aide Kenny Okolugbo, emphasized that the Senate is not a reality show, accusing the Kogi Central lawmaker of orchestrating a publicity stunt when she arrived at the National Assembly on July 22, 2025, with cameras and supporters in tow.
The Controversy: What Happened?
Senator Natasha, who had been suspended for six months by the Senate, attempted to resume plenary based on a judgment from the Federal High Court in Abuja, which she claimed nullified her suspension. However, Okolugbo has now disclosed that the same senator filed an appeal that contradicts this claim.
According to him, Ground 23 of her appeal in the case Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan vs. Clerk of the National Assembly & Ors reveals the trial court did not expressly nullify the suspension, despite acknowledging it as excessive and unconstitutional. This, he argued, proves her reinstatement claims were misleading.
“There was no official court directive to the Senate Clerk or leadership reinstating her. Instead, she arrived with cameras and supporters in what was clearly a staged spectacle,” Okolugbo stated.
"Just Apologise" – Senate Leadership
Akpabio’s office revealed that the Senate would have acted accordingly if the court had formally directed her recall. He stressed that the proper internal processes would have been followed starting with official notification from the Clerk and deliberation by Senate leadership.
“All she needed to do was apologise publicly, and the suspension would have been lifted,” Okolugbo said, noting that even public figures like the Brekete Family encouraged her to take that route.
Despite her absence, Okolugbo emphasized that legislative activities for Kogi Central were not affected. He pointed out that her sponsored bills, including one establishing the Federal Medical Centre in Ihima, continued progressing in her absence.
Gender Politics and Integrity
In a broader concern, the Senate President’s aide warned that the situation could negatively impact female representation in politics.
“Nigeria has only four female senators. When one weaponises gender and distorts facts, it harms genuine advocacy and female political credibility,” he said.
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Conclusion
The drama surrounding Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension and attempted return to the Senate has sparked a heated debate about constitutional processes, transparency, and the role of public perception in governance. With Akpabio demanding a public apology, the political future of the Kogi lawmaker may hinge on whether she chooses reconciliation or resistance.
What’s Your Take?
Should Senator Natasha apologise to resolve the standoff? Or is she right to fight what she considers an injustice?
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