Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan representing Kogi Central has revealed that she will return to the National Assembly later this month following the completion of her six-month suspension.
Her lawyer confirmed that she has been on vacation in London but is prepared to rejoin her colleagues when the Senate resumes on September 23.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 after allegations of insubordination, linked to her refusal to change her designated seat during plenary.
The suspension, recommended by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, also included the loss of her aides, office access, and salary.
The senator has maintained that her suspension was connected to her sexual harassment petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which the Senate rejected.
During her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan took legal action challenging the penalty and secured a court ruling that favoured her recall, though the Senate insisted she remain suspended until the six months ended.
Her attempt to return in July was blocked by security, despite a gathering of supporters outside the Assembly.
Her lawyer confirmed that the expiration of the suspension last Saturday clears the way for her resumption, saying ongoing legal matters will not prevent her from taking her seat.
He said: “Actually, she’s ready to resume her term. She’s in London. Everything is in place, and the six months have expired. The only thing left is her resumption.
“We have been told that even the leadership of the Senate is ready to welcome her. So that’s the situation at the moment. There is no obstacle at all.
“Everything will be resolved. Even the court cases will become like an academic exercise.”
