Natasha’s Suspension Continues As Senate Enters Recess

Senator Natasha’s suspension continues as Senate enters recess till September.
She plans legal action after being barred again from Senate entry.
Akpoti was briefly delayed at Abuja airport, flagged as flight risk.

The Nigerian Senate has adjourned plenary till September 23, 2025, for its annual recess, effectively ensuring that suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan will serve out her six-month suspension in full.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, for alleged misconduct during plenary on February 20, when she refused to accept a change to her assigned seat. Her penalty followed recommendations by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, which found her guilty of insubordination.

The Senate had demanded a formal apology and warned of possible further action if she failed to comply.

On Tuesday, she attempted to return to the Senate chamber but was denied entry. Speaking afterwards, she described the suspension as “fraudulent” and announced plans to seek legal redress. She also accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of overreaching his authority.

Meanwhile, Akpabio officially declared the recess on Thursday, noting it aligned with the legislative calendar and mirrored the House of Representatives’ schedule. He stated that while plenary sessions are on hold, Senate committees should continue their oversight functions across the country.

“Do all your reports and make them available as soon as we come back,” Akpabio directed, encouraging lawmakers to conduct visits and return with detailed findings.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele praised lawmakers’ dedication and moved a motion to defer other matters to the next legislative day, which was unanimously adopted.

In a separate incident, Akpoti-Uduaghan was briefly delayed at the Abuja airport while trying to travel to the UK. Immigration officers reportedly cited a watchlist order from the National Assembly leadership, labeling her a potential flight risk. She was later cleared and allowed to board.