Only Senate Can Reinstate Senator Natasha, Says Clerk

The Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly has clarified its role in the ongoing controversy surrounding Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, stating that only the Senate can reinstate her.

In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja by the Director of Information, Mr. Bullah Audu Bi-Allah, the Clerk emphasised that the office operates strictly as an administrative body and does not have the power to reverse, interpret, or modify decisions made by the Senate.

“The Clerk does not possess the authority to review, reverse, or interpret Senate decisions,” the statement read.

On March 6, 2025, the Senate suspended Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. Although the matter was challenged in court, the Federal High Court did not issue a binding order nullifying the suspension or compelling her reinstatement.

On September 4, 2025, the Senator notified the Clerk’s office of her intention to resume legislative duties.
However, the office noted that such correspondence is typically addressed to the Senate President.
The Clerk forwarded the letter to the Senate leadership, which responded that the case remains before the Court of Appeal and is therefore sub judice.

“Any change in status must come either from a new Senate resolution or a definitive court order,” the Clerk’s office stated, adding that it is not in a position to facilitate her return at this time.
In response, the Senator’s legal team, M.J. Numa & Partners LLP, accused the Clerk’s office of administrative overreach and threatened legal and disciplinary action.

However, the Clerk maintained that all actions have been within lawful administrative boundaries and aligned with due process.

“The determination of whether Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan can resume her legislative duties after the expiration of her six-month suspension lies solely with the Senate, not with the Office of the Clerk,” the statement read.

The Clerk’s office reaffirmed its commitment to upholding constitutional provisions, institutional integrity, and the rule of law.

It called on the public to remain calm and allow the Senate and the judiciary to discharge their responsibilities per the law.