Tension Rises: Senate’s Legal Adviser Distances Self From Natasha Akpoti Showdown

The controversial letter, dated July 5, 2025, and allegedly issued under the name of Paul Daudu, SAN & Co., claimed that the Federal High Court’s ruling in Natasha’s favor did not invalidate her suspension and urged her legal team to avoid any “premature actions.”....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In response, Daudu took to Facebook to strongly deny authoring the letter, labeling it as fake and misleading.

“Dear members of the public, please disregard the so-called open letter addressed to J.S. Okutepa (SAN) that is making rounds online. It is unsigned, not issued by me, and I have no idea where it originated from,” he wrote.

Daudu condemned the unauthorized use of his name and firm, calling it a gross misrepresentation. He also emphasized his deep professional respect for Okutepa, calling him a father figure and mentor in the legal profession.

“I would never author such a letter directed at a senior colleague and mentor,” he added.

Reaffirming his adherence to legal ethics, Daudu clarified that he does not debate court matters in public forums and prefers to confine all legal discussions to the courtroom.

“In line with my professional training, I do not engage in public arguments over pending court matters. I trust in the legal system to resolve all issues,” he stated.

The now-debunked letter had warned that Senator Natasha’s return to the Senate without a formal enrolled court order could incite tension and “potential unrest” within the chamber. It also appeared to caution Okutepa to advise his client in the interest of preserving legislative stability.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for six months, but last week, a Federal High Court in Abuja ruled the suspension unlawful and excessive, ordering her reinstatement. Justice Binta Nyako held that the suspension infringed on the constitutional rights of her constituents to representation.

Despite the court’s decision, the senator’s anticipated return has continued to stir controversy, with political tensions simmering beneath the surface.