The Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly has clarified its position regarding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, stressing that it lacks the authority to facilitate her resumption of legislative duties.
In a press release signed by Director of Information on Monday, Bulah Audu Bi-Allah, on behalf of the Clerk, the office noted that recent media reports and public commentary had misrepresented its role in the ongoing dispute. It explained that the Clerk’s function is purely administrative, bound by Senate resolutions, Standing Orders, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as Amended).
“The Clerk does not possess the authority to review, reverse or interpret Senate decisions,” the statement read.
The clarification followed Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to resume duties on 4 September 2025, after her six-month suspension by the Senate on 6 March 2025.
According to the press release, the Clerk’s Office duly informed Senate leadership of her communication. However, the Senate noted that the matter remains before the Court of Appeal and that any change in status must be guided either by a fresh Senate resolution or a definitive court order.
“The Clerk is therefore not in a position to facilitate her resumption at this time,” the statement emphasised.
The release further disclosed that the office had received a letter from Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal representatives, M. J. Numa & Partners LLP, accusing the Clerk of overreach and threatening legal action. In response, the Clerk maintained that all actions taken had been within lawful administrative limits and in full compliance with due process.
“It must be emphasised that the determination of whether Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan can resume her legislative duties as of right without any further or fresh resolution of the Senate following the expiration of her six months suspension lies solely with the Senate and not with the office of the Clerk to the National Assembly,” the press release stated.
The Clerk’s Office reaffirmed its commitment to constitutionalism, institutional respect, and the rule of law, urging the public to remain patient while the Senate and the courts discharge their constitutional responsibilities.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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