BREAKING: Gambian MP Calls on Nigerian Senate to Reinstate Natasha Akpoti, Labels Suspension ‘Unlawful

Gambian lawmaker Fatoumatta Njai has urged the Nigerian Senate to immediately reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, condemning her prolonged suspension as unconstitutional and a violation of democratic principles.

In a letter dated September 9, 2025, and addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Njai — chair of the Gambian Parliament’s Gender and Children’s Welfare Committee — described the suspension as “excessive” and an affront to the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.

“Today it is the distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, tomorrow it could be me,” Njai wrote. “After six months of unlawful suspension, she must be reinstated without delay.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan had formally notified the National Assembly clerk on August 28 of her intention to resume duties on September 4, which she said marked the end of her six-month suspension. But on Tuesday, she was barred from returning, with Senate officials insisting her case remains subject to litigation.

Njai’s intervention follows a July 4 ruling by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, which declared that suspending a lawmaker for six months was excessive.

She accused the Senate of openly disregarding the judgment by preventing Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming on July 22, thereby unlawfully extending the penalty.

“This is a direct affront to the rule of law and a blatant disregard for judicial authority,” Njai said. “Leadership is not about silencing voices, especially those who dare to speak truth with courage and integrity.”

The Gambian MP emphasized that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s significance extends beyond Kogi Central, noting that she represents women and youth across Nigeria who believe in justice, accountability, and equal representation.

“As the largest country in ECOWAS, Nigeria must set the standard for the region,” Njai wrote. “Justice delayed is justice denied. Senator Natasha must be allowed to resume her duties immediately.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended in February after a heated altercation with Senate President Akpabio over seating arrangements. The upper chamber later accused her of “gross misconduct.”