The Digest:
Suspended lawmaker Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central made a bold return to the National Assembly, defying Senate orders after a court ruling. Despite the Senate's warnings, she arrived accompanied by supporters, reigniting tensions over her suspension.
Key Points:
- Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan defied Senate's suspension order on July 22, 2025.
- Arrived at the National Assembly with a convoy, bypassing initial security checks.
- Supporters chanted in pidgin, showing strong backing for the suspended senator.
- Senate reaffirmed no binding court order for her recall.
- Court ruling urged the Senate to reconsider the suspension but did not mandate her reinstatement.
- The Senate insists Akpoti-Uduaghan violated procedures, including contempt charges.
- Despite ongoing appeal, Akpoti-Uduaghan challenges Senate’s authority.
While the court urged the Senate to reconsider, no mandatory order for reinstatement was issued. The suspended senator’s defiance could fuel a prolonged legal and political struggle.
Sources: Vanguard News, Punch, Daily Trust
