The National Assembly (NASS) has said no administrative action can be taken on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s notification to resume legislative duties after the expiration of her six-month suspension.
The Acting Clerk of the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, stated this in a letter addressed to the senator following her notification to resume duties on Sept. 4.
Danzaria explained that the matter remains sub judice as it is still before the Court of Appeal.
“I am directed to acknowledge receipt of your letter notifying this office of your intention to resume sitting and other legislative duties in the Senate on September 4, which you claim is the expiration date of the six-month suspension imposed on you by the Senate.
“I am further directed to inform you that your suspension took effect from Thursday, March 6, and to draw your attention to the fact that the subject matter of your suspension is presently before the Court of Appeal.
“The matter, therefore, remains sub judice and until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption.
“You will be duly notified of the Senate’s decision on the matter as soon as it is resolved. Please accept, distinguished senator, the assurances of my highest regards,” the letter read.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 for alleged gross misconduct and violation of Senate rules.
In her letter to the Clerk, she insisted that September 4 marked the end of her suspension and demanded immediate reinstatement.
“I, therefore, formally demand that I be permitted to resume my full duties as a distinguished senator with effect from September 4. All necessary arrangements should be made to ensure I have unimpeded access to my senatorial office, staff and facilities from that date.
“I trust that your office will take all necessary steps to ensure compliance, which is founded on law and the clear terms of the Senate’s own resolution. I look forward to your written confirmation of the arrangements for my resumption,” she wrote.
