Embattled senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, is gearing up for a dramatic return to the Senate later this month after completing her six-month suspension.
Her lawyer, Victor Giwa, revealed that the lawmaker is currently on vacation in London but will rejoin her colleagues once the Senate reconvenes on September 23.
“She’s ready to resume her term. Everything is in place, and the suspension period has expired. The only thing left is her resumption,” Giwa told PUNCH.
No Resistance from Senate Leadership
According to Giwa, the Senate leadership is also prepared to welcome her back without opposition.
“We have been told that even the leadership of the Senate is ready to welcome her. So there is no obstacle at all,” he said.
Why She Was Suspended
Recall that Natasha was suspended on March 6 after she rejected a reassignment of her designated seat during plenary, an action the Senate described as insubordination.
The punishment, recommended by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, saw her lose office privileges, aides, and salaries.
However, Natasha insisted that the move was politically motivated, linking it to her petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, whom she accused of sexual harassment — an allegation that the Senate dismissed.
Court Drama and Attempted Return
Although she secured a court ruling which she said supported her recall, the Senate maintained that the suspension would run its full six-month course.
In July, Natasha attempted to return to plenary but was blocked by security operatives, sparking a heated confrontation as her supporters staged protests outside the National Assembly.
Countdown to Her Comeback
With her suspension officially ending last Saturday, her lawyer stressed that ongoing court cases won’t stop her reinstatement.
“Everything will be resolved. Even the court cases will become like an academic exercise,” Giwa assured.
Now, all eyes are on September 23, when Natasha is expected to make her big return to the red chamber — and Nigerians are waiting to see how hot the atmosphere will get.
