Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from Kogi Central has explained why she has not returned to the Senate yet, even though a court cancelled her suspension. She said she delayed her return based on legal advice and to follow proper procedures.
Speaking during an interview with AIT (African Independent Television), Senator Natasha said she is waiting for the official copy of the court judgment, known as the Certified True Copy (CTC), before making any move.
“I believe in the courts, and I’m not giving up,” she said, showing her trust in the legal process.
Although the court said her suspension was too harsh and against the constitution, a legal opinion from Senate lawyer Paul Daudu, dated July 5, said the court did not clearly order the Senate to bring her back. This created confusion about whether she could return right away.
Some people questioned what she was doing during her suspension. In response, Senator Natasha said she was still very active and focused on serving her people and working on her legislative plans.
“I stayed active the whole time. I was working on the gold bill and planning others on lithium and red minerals. I couldn’t just leave them to someone else,” she said.
Even though she couldn’t attend Senate sessions, she said she continued helping people in her district. She mentioned projects like installing solar-powered streetlights, starting the construction of smart markets in various local governments, and giving out hundreds of laptops to students at Meseta Memorial College.
“My absence from the Senate is not just about me,” she said. “It’s like silencing the voice of Kogi Central. The Senate is not only keeping me out but also reducing the voice of women and children in Nigeria. We now have only three female senators, down from eight.”
Arabella reports that her earlier plan to return on a Tuesday caused tension at the National Assembly. There was a strong security presence and many official vehicles that day. Movement in and out of the building was closely watched, and vehicles were thoroughly checked.
Even though she has not officially returned yet, Senator Natasha said she will continue to do her job.
“I am still committed to helping not just Kogi Central, but all of Nigeria,” she said. “I will keep doing my work, whether I’m in the Senate or not.”