Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, is now eligible to return to the floor of the Senate following the completion of her six-month suspension imposed earlier in the year by the leadership of the National Assembly.
The senator, who was elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was suspended in March 2025 over what the Senate described as “unparliamentary conduct” and alleged breach of legislative decorum. Though the suspension attracted mixed reactions from constituents, civil society groups, and political observers—many of whom viewed it as politically motivated—Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained a calm posture throughout the disciplinary period, vowing to return stronger and more focused on delivering on her legislative mandate.
Sources within the National Assembly confirmed that with the expiration of the six-month disciplinary action, there is no legal or procedural barrier preventing her from fully resuming her senatorial responsibilities when the Senate reconvenes next week. Her aides have also hinted at her readiness to immediately re-engage with key committee work, oversight duties, and constituency matters that were temporarily put on hold during her absence.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a lawyer, social entrepreneur, and vocal advocate for good governance, made headlines in 2023 after winning one of the most fiercely contested senatorial elections in the country, defeating the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in what was widely hailed as a historic victory for women in politics and democratic resilience in Kogi State.
During her time away from the Red Chamber, the senator remained active in her constituency, commissioning projects, meeting with youth groups, and engaging traditional rulers on local development issues. Her return is expected to reignite debates around gender representation, legislative independence, and the balance of power within the current Senate.
Political analysts believe her reinstatement may also shift the dynamics within the Senate minority caucus, where she has been a key voice on electoral reforms, resource control, and anti-corruption initiatives. With several bills and motions bearing her sponsorship still pending at committee level, attention now turns to how quickly she can recover lost ground and advance her legislative agenda.
As the Senate prepares for another legislative session, expectations are high among her supporters, especially in Kogi Central, who have expressed eagerness to see her resume her role in Abuja.
Many believe that her resilience during the suspension has only strengthened her political profile, positioning her as one of the most formidable female lawmakers in Nigeria’s 10th National Assembly.
