Natasha Writes NASS, Seeks Compliance With Court Order

Suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has formally demanded her reinstatement to the Senate, citing a recent Federal High Court judgment that voided her suspension and ordered her immediate recall.

In a letter dated July 16, 2025, her legal counsel, Michael Jonathan, addressed the National Assembly’s Director of Litigation and Counselling, Charles Yoila.

The letter was a direct response to the Assembly’s July 14 communication, which dismissed the court’s ruling as merely advisory.

The legal team referenced Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025, which challenged Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.

In its judgment, the Federal High Court issued twelve explicit orders—each beginning with “It Is Hereby Ordered”—which the senator’s lawyers argue carry full judicial authority.

Particularly disputed is Order 12, which states that “the Senate should recall the Plaintiff.” While the Senate interprets the word “should” as discretionary, the legal team contends that, within the context of the entire judgment and the legal violations identified, the directive is binding.

The legal team stated that the court found Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension unconstitutional because it violated Section 63 of the Nigerian Constitution and Senate Standing Orders 2023.

Her lawyers supported their argument with legal precedent, including the 2025 case Ecobank (Nig.) Ltd v. Tempo Energy (Nig.) Ltd, emphasising that judicial orders are enforceable even when phrased in seemingly discretionary terms.

“The judgment contains clear, enforceable judicial directives,” the letter stated, highlighting Section 287(3) of the Constitution, which mandates all branches of government to comply with Federal High Court decisions.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has notified the National Assembly of her intention to resume duties on July 22, 2025, following the official mourning period for former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Her legal team warned that any obstruction would prompt “all lawful measures” to ensure compliance.