By John Umeh
The Nigerian Senate is holding off on taking any formal steps regarding the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, pending the official receipt of the certified true copy of a recent court judgment that declared her the legitimate winner of the Kogi Central senatorial seat.
The development comes after the Court of Appeal upheld an earlier tribunal ruling, effectively sacking Senator Abubakar Ohere of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and affirming Natasha, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, as the duly elected senator. While the court’s decision has been widely reported and celebrated by her supporters, legislative protocol requires the formal judgment to be submitted before the Senate can act on it.
No Judgment Copy, No Senate Action
A source within the Senate leadership confirmed that the chamber is aware of the court’s ruling but cannot proceed with swearing-in or reinstatement procedures without the official court document. “The Senate cannot act on hearsay or media reports,” the source explained. “Until the Clerk of the Senate receives the certified true copy of the judgment, no formal step can be taken.”
This legal and procedural requirement is in line with Senate Standing Orders and long-standing practice to maintain the integrity and legality of all parliamentary decisions.
Natasha Plans Return
Meanwhile, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has expressed readiness to resume legislative duties as soon as the judgment is formally transmitted. In a recent social media post, she thanked the judiciary for standing firm on justice and reiterated her commitment to representing the people of Kogi Central with “honour, compassion, and progressive ideas.”
Her legal team is reportedly working closely with court officials to expedite the issuance of the judgment copy to the Senate. “We are ensuring that there are no delays or loopholes,” a member of her legal counsel stated. “Once the judgment reaches the Clerk, the ball will be in the Senate’s court.”
Political Reactions
The political atmosphere surrounding the case remains tense, especially in Kogi State, where the ruling has sharply divided public opinion. Supporters of Natasha have held small-scale celebrations, while allies of the ousted Senator Ohere have vowed to seek further legal interpretation or redress if necessary.
At the national level, some senators across party lines have expressed support for Natasha’s return, noting that the judiciary has spoken and the legislative body must respect the rule of law. However, others have advised caution, insisting that all procedural requirements be fulfilled before any action is taken.
What Happens Next?
Once the certified true copy of the judgment is received by the Clerk of the Senate, the Senate President will be expected to announce the ruling formally on the floor of the Red Chamber. This would then be followed by arrangements for Natasha’s official swearing-in—likely during the next legislative sitting.
Until then, the Senate remains in a state of procedural limbo, carefully navigating the intersection of judicial authority and legislative process.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s anticipated return to the Senate may be a matter of days, but until due process is completed, the upper legislative chamber is treading cautiously. As Nigerians await the next move, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of legal documentation in political transitions and the enduring role of the judiciary in electoral matters.
