The Nigerian Senate has dismissed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to return to plenary, describing it as “skit making” and “political theatrics”.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended for six months in May after accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment.
Despite a federal high court judgment allowing her return, the Senate refused to grant her access to the National Assembly complex, citing that the court’s ruling did not invalidate her suspension but rather ordered her to apologize, pay a fine, and retract a social media post, which she has already appealed.
Yemi Adaramodu, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs chairman, emphasized that enforcing court judgments isn’t the litigant’s responsibility but rather that of court bailiffs.
He added that until a competent court declares the suspension unconstitutional, the Senate’s action stands.
Adaramodu also criticized Akpoti-Uduaghan’s approach as confrontational, stating that the Senate wouldn’t allow anything smacking of illegality into the chamber.
The Senate spokesperson maintained that the upper chamber has more critical roles to play than engaging in what they deem “content creation” and “season film”.
The development highlights the ongoing tension between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership.
