Senate Adjourns Until September as Senator Natasha’s Suspension Lingers

Two days after Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was denied entry into the Senate chamber, the Nigerian Senate adjourned plenary on Thursday, July 24, 2025, for its annual recess. The break, which lasts until September 23, effectively means the embattled Kogi lawmaker will serve out the remainder of her six-month suspension without further interference or consideration from the chamber.

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, following her refusal to comply with a seating change during the February 20 plenary. The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions found her guilty of misconduct and insubordination and recommended a six-month suspension, pending a formal apology. Although the suspension was set to expire on September 6, the Senate’s recess ensures that her return cannot occur until the legislature reconvenes weeks later.

Speaking to reporters after being denied entry into the chamber earlier in the week, Akpoti-Uduaghan described her suspension as “fraudulent” and vowed to challenge the decision in court. “Even the suspension ab initio was fraudulent, the document was faulty,” she declared. She accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of overstepping his authority and confirmed she would seek legal interpretation from an appellate court.

Senate President Akpabio, while announcing the recess, explained that the break aligns with the legislative calendar and mirrors the House of Representatives’ schedule. He emphasized that although plenary is suspended, committees are expected to continue with oversight duties. “This is the best time for you to undertake visits, submit your reports, and continue the business of governance,” he said, urging lawmakers not to neglect their responsibilities during the recess.

In a related development, Akpoti-Uduaghan was reportedly delayed at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport while attempting to board a flight to the UK. According to a family source, immigration officials informed her she had been placed on a watch list, allegedly at the request of National Assembly leadership. “She was told the National Assembly leadership flagged her as a flight risk,” the source revealed. The senator has not yet issued an official statement on the incident.