The Nigerian Senate has reopened the office of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, after a Federal High Court ruling deemed her six-month suspension excessive and unconstitutional.
The court ordered her immediate reinstatement, highlighting that the suspension had denied her constituents their constitutional right to representation. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan promptly notified the Senate of her intention to resume duties, which she did on July 22, 2025.
Despite opposition from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who filed an appeal challenging the court's decision, Akpoti-Uduaghan resumed her legislative activities, including sponsoring bills and motions on the Senate floor.
The senator explained that while her suspension did not halt her constituency work, it restricted her legislative responsibilities. She emphasized the three main functions of a senator: lawmaking, oversight, and representation, underscoring the importance of equitable representation for her people.
The reopening of her office marks a significant victory for Akpoti-Uduaghan and her constituents, reaffirming judicial support for lawmakers' mandates and highlighting ongoing tensions within the Senate.