Olayiwola Matthew
The National Assembly has said that no administrative action can be taken on notification by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to resume legislative duties in Senate, after expiration of her six months suspension.
The Acting Clerk of National Assembly, Dr Yahaya Danzaria, said this in a letter addressed to Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over her earlier notification to resume her legislative duties on September 4, having completed her six months suspension.
Danzaria said that the matter was still subjudice due to pending suit before the Court of Appeal.
Danzaria’s letter read in part: “I am directed to acknowledge the receipt of your letter notifying this office of your intention to resume sitting and other legislative duties in Senate on September 4, which you claim is the expiration date of the six months suspension imposed on you by Senate.
“I am further directed to inform you that your suspension was with effect from Thursday March 6 and draw your attention to the fact that the subject matter of your suspension is presently before Court of Appeal.
“The matter, therefore, remains subjudice and until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in the light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption.
“You will be duly notified of Senate’s decision on the matter as soon as it is resolved.
“Please accept, distinguished senator, the assurances of my highest regards,” Danzaria said.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, for alleged gross misconduct and violation of Senate rules.
She notified the Clerk to National Assembly of her intention to resume duties on Sept 4, stating, that it marked end of her suspension.
Akpoti-Uduaghan in her letter said: `I, therefore, formally demand that I be permitted to resume my full duties as distinguished senator with effect from Sept.4
“All necessary arrangements be made to ensure I have unimpeded access to my senatorial office, staff and facilities from that date.
“I trust that your office will take all necessary steps to ensure compliance which is founded on law and the clear terms of the Senate’s own resolution.
“I look forward to your written confirmation of the arrangements for my resumption and would be grateful if same could be provided before the date,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said.