Clerk of National Assembly Clarifies Role in Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Suspension Dispute
By Mercy Adi
The Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly has clarified its role in the ongoing controversy surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and her recent attempt to resume legislative duties.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Clerk stressed that the office serves strictly as an administrative arm of the legislature and does not have the authority to review, reverse, or interpret Senate decisions.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for six months by a Senate resolution passed on March 6, 2025. Although she challenged the decision in court, the Federal High Court did not overturn the resolution, and no binding order has been issued to nullify or modify it.
The Clerk’s office disclosed that on September 4, 2025, the senator formally communicated her intention to resume duties. In line with procedure, the office referred the communication to the Senate leadership. According to the Clerk, the leadership noted that the matter remains before the Court of Appeal and that any change to her status must come either through a new Senate resolution or a definitive court order.
“The Clerk is therefore not in a position to facilitate her resumption at this time,” the statement read.
The office also acknowledged receiving a letter from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal representatives, M.J. Numa & Partners LLP, accusing the Clerk of overreach and threatening legal action. It maintained, however, that it had acted within its lawful administrative limits and in full observance of due process.
The Clerk emphasized that the decision on whether the senator can resume legislative duties after the expiration of her suspension rests solely with the Senate.
Reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law, the Office urged the public to remain patient and allow both the Senate and the courts to discharge their constitutional responsibilities
