Tension Rises: Akpoti-Uduaghan Battles Akpabio Over Senate Return

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has announced her intention to return to the Senate on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in accordance with a court ruling—despite an appeal filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio challenging that decision.

Speaking during a community empowerment event in her constituency, Akpoti-Uduaghan acknowledged that her suspension affected her legislative output but affirmed it did not deter her commitment to serving her people.

“With about two months left before the six-month suspension lapses, I’ve written to the Senate to inform them of my plan to resume on Tuesday, July 22, by God’s grace,” the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker said. “I’ll be there. The court made a decision. Some say it wasn’t an order, but a decision is a decision.”

Her remarks come after clarifications that the court didn’t issue a direct order for her reinstatement but ruled against the legality of her suspension.

Reflecting on the impact, she noted that while her lawmaking role was paused, her work in representation continued. “Every senator has three primary roles: legislation, oversight, and representation. I’ve remained active in representing my people,” she said.

She emphasized that she had succeeded in pushing her constituents’ needs into the federal budget and maintained active community engagement. “Yes, I missed presenting my bills, but it didn’t stop me from working,” she added.

The senator confirmed that she has officially notified the Senate leadership of her intention to resume her duties on the stated date.