The senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has shared why she decided to delay her planned return to the Senate for legislative work.
Speaking in an interview with African Independent Television (AIT), Akpoti-Uduaghan said her choice came after getting legal advice and out of respect for procedures linked to a recent court decision that nullified her suspension.
She made it clear she is waiting to get the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment before deciding her next steps.
While explaining how she stayed active during the suspension, the senator noted she focused on serving her people through several projects. She mentioned installing solar-powered streetlights in different communities, starting work on smart markets across local government areas, and giving out hundreds of laptops to students at Meseta Memorial College.
“I remained active throughout. These are personal initiatives—I was hoping to finish the gold bill and move on to others like lithium and red mineral legislation. I can’t simply hand them over to others,” she said.
Earlier, when news spread about her planned resumption at the Senate, it caused tension around the National Assembly complex. There was a large number of security officers and their vehicles on standby, and cars moving in and out of the premises were thoroughly searched.
A court had ruled her suspension as excessive and unconstitutional. However, a legal opinion dated July 5 by Senate counsel Paul Daudu, SAN, noted that the court ruling did not include a direct order forcing the Senate to let her return immediately.
Speaking about how her absence affects her constituents, Akpoti-Uduaghan said, “By keeping me out of the chambers, the Senate is not just silencing Kogi Central—it’s denying Nigerian women and children representation. We are only three female senators now, down from eight.”
Despite the situation, she stressed her dedication to her work and the development of both Kogi Central and Nigeria. Akpoti-Uduaghan made it clear that her passion to serve remains strong whether or not she sits in the Red Chamber.
“I believe in the judiciary, I’m not giving up,” she added, showing hope for a quick return to continue her legislative duties fully.
