The embattled Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has revealed that her decision to postpone resumption at the National Assembly was guided by legal advice and a deep respect for due process.
In an interview aired on African Independent Television (AIT), Senator Natasha said she is awaiting the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court judgment that voided her suspension from the Senate before making her next official move.
“I believe in the judiciary, I’m not giving up,” she declared, reaffirming her confidence in the legal process while explaining that her legal counsel advised caution until the full judgment is available for review.
The Senator’s announcement of a planned return to the Senate had earlier sparked tension within the National Assembly complex, as Hobnob News observed heightened security presence on Tuesday. Several vehicles entering and exiting the premises were subjected to intense scrutiny, as police operatives and security vehicles maintained a conspicuous presence.
Though the court recently ruled her suspension unconstitutional and excessive, an internal legal opinion dated July 5 and reportedly authored by Senate counsel Paul Daudu, SAN, argued that the judgment lacked a direct and enforceable order compelling the Senate to reinstate her.
Speaking on her activities during the suspension period, Natasha defended her commitment to legislative duties and her constituents.
“I remained active throughout. These are personal initiatives—I was hoping to finish the gold bill and move on to others like lithium and red mineral legislation. I can’t simply hand them over to others,” she said.
The Senator also emphasized that she had channeled her time outside the chamber into delivering democratic dividends, launching several constituency projects, and pushing forward with her flagship legislative proposal—the Gold Reserve Bill.
“I have a responsibility to the people of Kogi Central, and indeed, to Nigerians. My commitment to national development has never wavered,” she added.
While Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has yet to receive the court’s CTC to facilitate her formal return, she reiterated her resolve to continue serving her people whether within or outside the Red Chamber.
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