Why we can’t reinstate Natasha now – Nigerian Senate

The Nigerian Senate has explained why it cannot yet reinstate the suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

According to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the Senate must first receive and review the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court judgment delivered in her case against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Recall that on March 6, the Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following allegations of sexual harassment she made against Akpabio. Her suspension was based on recommendations by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imasuen (APC–Edo South).

Unhappy with the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan challenged it at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Last week, Justice Binta Nyako ordered the Senate to lift her suspension and reinstate her. The court also found her in contempt and ordered her to pay a fine of ₦5 million.

Speaking on the matter, Senator Adaramodu confirmed that the Senate had already applied for the CTC of the judgment on Monday. He stressed that the Senate could not take any action until the document was received and thoroughly examined.