PDP, SANs Slam Senate Over Natasha’s Blocked Return **Abuja, September 10, 2025** – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and prominent Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) have condemned the Senate’s decision to bar Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her duties after a six-month suspension, arguing it violates constitutional rights and deprives Kogi Central of representation as the Senate prepares to reconvene on September 23.

In a September 4 letter, Acting Clerk Dr. Yahaya Danzaria informed Akpoti-Uduaghan that her March 6 suspension for alleged insubordination—stemming from refusing to vacate an assigned seat—remains in effect until her Court of Appeal case against the Senate concludes. The letter cites the sub judice status, delaying administrative action for her return. Her lawyer, Victor Giwa, stated she had notified the clerk on August 28 of her intent to resume on September 4, believing her penalty had expired.

The Senate’s Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions Committee report led to the suspension, stripping Akpoti-Uduaghan of salaries, aides, and office privileges. She alleges political motives, linking it to her dismissed petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment. A July attempt to re-enter the chamber was blocked by security, sparking protests by supporters. Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed an April court win, but Senate leaders enforced the full term.

The PDP, via National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, called the Senate’s action a bad-faith move by the APC-led leadership to suppress opposition, labeling it a “clear and present danger to democracy.” The party demanded the letter’s withdrawal, citing violations of the Constitution and Senate Standing Rules, and urged intervention by rights groups and the international community. They also referenced Akpabio’s alleged “history of harassment against women.”

SANs, including Adedayo Adedeji, Wale Balogun, Paul Obi, and Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, argued the Senate lacks constitutional grounds to extend the suspension. Adedeji cited Sections 68 and 1(3) of the 1999 Constitution, stating suspensions must not deny constituents representation. Balogun emphasized the six-month term has lapsed, separating it from the ongoing litigation, and warned against indefinite exclusion. Obi called the move “unjustifiable overreach,” while Adegboruwa labeled it “vindictive,” noting the trial court’s caution against excessive suspensions. Conversely, Mike Ozekhome (SAN) advocated letting the court process conclude, citing ongoing appeals.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) condemned the Senate, demanding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s immediate resumption and payment of withheld salaries and allowances. They argued that barring her violates Nigeria’s Constitution and international human rights obligations, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.