Senate Yet to Receive Court Order on Natasha’s Reinstatement

The Nigerian Senate says it has not yet been served the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court judgment that nullified its suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, days after the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that Natasha’s six-month suspension was “excessive” and ordered her immediate reinstatement.

“The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria acknowledges that judgment was delivered on 4th July 2025 by the Federal High Court, Abuja, in the suit instituted by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. However, the Senate is yet to be served with the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the said judgment,” the statement said.

Adaramodu noted that although the Senate’s legal representatives were present in court on the day of the judgment, the full ruling was not read in open court. As a result, the Senate has formally requested the CTC for a proper review before making any decision.

“Since no party to the case has been officially served the enrolled order of the judgment, none can enforce any perceived order or relief,” he said.

He added that pending receipt and analysis of the official document, the Senate would refrain from taking any step that could jeopardize its legal standing.

“Our legal representatives, who were in attendance at the proceedings, have confirmed that the complete judgment was not read in open court. Consequently, we have formally applied for the CTC to enable a thorough review and informed determination of the appropriate legal response, particularly in view of the uncertainty surrounding whether the court made any direct order nullifying the suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.”

Adaramodu stressed that the Senate remained committed to the rule of law and would act strictly in line with constitutional provisions once the court’s pronouncement was fully clarified.

“We urge the public to remain patient and assured of the Senate’s fidelity to due process,” he added.