The Senate has said it has not yet been served the certified true copy (CTC) of Federal High Court judgment that nullified the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Gatekeepers News reports that on Friday, July 4, Justice Binta Nyako ruled that the Senate’s suspension of the Kogi Central lawmaker was excessive and ordered her reinstatement.
However, the Senate in a statement on Sunday by its spokesperson Senator Yemi Adaramodu, said that the upper legislative chamber cannot act on the ruling until it receives and reviews the official copy of the court’s decision.
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The house said it has applied for the CTC in order to properly evaluate the court’s ruling and determine the appropriate legal response.
The statement reads, “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.”
“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.”
“Since no party to the case has been officially served the enrolled order of the judgement, none can enforce any perceived order or relief.”
“Pending receipt and examination of the CTC, and acting on the advice of counsel, the Senate shall refrain from taking any steps that may prejudice its legal position.”
“The Senate remains committed to upholding the rule of law and will act strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria upon full clarification of the court’s pronouncements.”
The upper legislative house urged the public to remain calm and trust in the Senate’s adherence to constitutional procedures.
Earlier on Sunday, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had reacted to the court ruling, described the judgment as a victory, and said she will resume in the senate on Tuesday.
She told her supporters, “I thank you for your support. I am glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God.”
