The Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly has issued a statement addressing widespread media reports and public commentary regarding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and her recent attempt to resume legislative duties.
The clarification comes amid correspondence from her legal representatives, M. J. Numa & Partners LLP, and follows a six-month suspension resolution passed by the Senate on March 6, 2025.
According to the statement, the Clerk’s Office serves strictly as an administrative arm, providing support to the Senate in line with resolutions, Standing Orders, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
It emphasizes that the Clerk lacks authority to review, reverse, or interpret Senate decisions. The Federal High Court did not invalidate the Senate’s suspension resolution, and no binding court order has been issued to alter the suspension.
On September 4, 2025, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan communicated her intention to resume duties to the Clerk’s office, though protocol suggests communication should be directed to the Senate President. The office conveyed this to Senate leadership, who noted the matter remains before the Court of Appeal (subjudice), indicating any status change requires a fresh Senate resolution or a definitive court order.
The Clerk’s office expressed dismay over a letter from Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyers accusing the office of overreach and threatening action, stressing it has acted within lawful administrative limits and observed due process. The statement underscores that determination of the Senator’s resumption lies solely with the Senate, not the Clerk’s office.
The Office of the Clerk reiterated its commitment to constitutionalism, institutional respect, and the rule of law, urging the public to allow appropriate institutions, including the Senate and courts, to discharge their constitutional responsibilities amid the ongoing controversy.