The Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly has distanced itself from media reports suggesting that it played a role in preventing Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming legislative duties following the expiration of her six-month suspension.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Clerk’s Office stressed that it function strictly as an administrative arm of the legislature and does not have the authority to review, reverse, or interpret resolutions of the Senate.
The Senate had, on March 6, 2025, suspended Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. Although the decision was challenged in court, the Federal High Court did not invalidate the resolution, and no binding order has been issued to reverse it.
The Clerk confirmed receiving a letter from the senator on September 4, 2025, notifying of her intention to resume duties, but said the matter was referred to Senate leadership, who noted that the issue remains sub judice at the Court of Appeal. Leadership further maintained that any change in her status must come through a new Senate resolution or a definitive court order.
The Office of the Clerk also reacted to a letter from Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal representatives, M. J. Numa & Partners LLP, which accused the office of overreach and threatened legal action. The Clerk maintained that all actions taken were strictly within lawful administrative limits.
“It must be emphasized that the determination of whether Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan can resume her legislative duties lies solely with the Senate and not with the Office of the Clerk,” the statement read.
The Clerk reaffirmed commitment to due process, constitutionalism, and the rule of law while urging the public to allow the Senate and the courts to discharge their constitutional responsibilities.
