Senator Natasha’s Plenary Seat Controversy: CNA Clarifies Admission Requirements
By Raphael Ekpang
Abuja (Core Reporters) The Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly has clarified its stance on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension and attempted resumption of legislative duties.
This was contained in a press statement issued by the office on Monday, September, 15, 2025, which was made available to Core Reporters.
The office of the clerk clarified that the clerk serves strictly as an administrative arm of the legislature and does not have the authority to review, reverse, or interpret Senate decisions. Adding that the matter is currently before the Court of Appeal, and no court order has been issued to reverse or modify the suspension.
“The attention of the Office of the Clerk to the National Assembly has been drawn to widespread media reports and public commentary concerning the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, her attempt to resume legislative duties. and the subsequent correspondence from her legal representatives, M. J. Numa & Partners L.LP,.
“In light of these developments, it is necessary to clarify the role of the Clerk to the National Assembly on this matter.
The Clerk’s Office serves strictly as an administrative arm, providing support to the Senate in accordance with their resolutions, Standing Orders and the provisions of 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.”
Recall that Senator Natasha was suspended for six months by the Senate on March 6, 2025. And by September 6, she was supposed to resume her legislative duties but circumstances surrounding the whole episode have made it almost impossible for her resumption this month or in the near future.
While responding to legal threats by Senator Natasha’s legal team, the Clerk’s Office maintains that it has acted within lawful administrative limits and in faithful observance of due process.
“To our dismay, the Office of the Clerk received a letter from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal representatives (M. J. Numa & Partners LI.P,), accusing this office of overreach and threatening legal and disciplinary action. While the office respects the right of all parties to seek legal redress, it must be stressed that the Clerk has at all times acted within lawful administrative limits, and in faithful observance of due process.
“It must be emphasized 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 Office of the Clerk remains guided by the principles of constitutionalism, institutional respect and the rule of law.
The public is urged to remain patient and allow the appropriate institutions; including the Senate and the courts – to
discharge their constitutional responsibilities.” The statement said.
