Senator Natasha Threatens Legal Action Over National Assembly Clerk’s Attempt To Halt Her Legislative Resumption

 

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has issued a stern warning to the Clerk of the National Assembly, Kamorudeen Ogunlana, cautioning him against any attempt to obstruct her return to legislative duties. The senator, who represents Kogi Central, signaled her readiness to initiate a lawsuit if she is prevented from resuming her responsibilities by Monday, September 15, 2025.

The warning was officially communicated in a strongly worded letter dated September 10, signed by her legal counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Michael Numa. The letter described any obstruction to the senator’s resumption as a violation of judicial orders and a potential abuse of office by the Clerk of the National Assembly.

Numa emphasized that the office of the Clerk carries an obligation to respect and implement lawful court judgments. He pointed out that the continued refusal to obey judicial directives would not only erode public trust in the National Assembly but also amount to professional misconduct under the Code of Conduct for Public Officers. According to him, such disobedience could expose Ogunlana to contempt proceedings and additional disciplinary sanctions.

The letter read in part, “Take notice that failure to comply by Monday, 15th September 2025, will leave us with no alternative but to initiate proceedings against you personally and in your official capacity.” It further stated that disregard for valid judgments cannot be tolerated under a constitutional democracy that prides itself on the rule of law.

The senator’s position highlights what she views as a deliberate attempt to undermine judicial authority. Her legal team insists that no public officer has the discretion to flout clear judicial pronouncements without consequences. Numa warned that Ogunlana risks being held responsible for instigating a breach of peace should tensions escalate as a result of what he called an “untenable stance.”

Observers note that the tension stems from a letter issued earlier by the Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria. That correspondence informed Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan that her suspension matter was still pending before the courts, thereby making her return to the chamber premature. However, her legal team disputes this position, arguing that the court has already ruled in her favor, rendering further delays unjustifiable.

Political analysts have described the situation as a test of institutional integrity within Nigeria’s legislative arm. They argue that while clerks of the assembly hold administrative authority, they are not above judicial rulings. Allowing such resistance to persist, they caution, could set a dangerous precedent where administrative officers become gatekeepers of elected representatives’ mandates.

Constitutional experts also point out that Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution makes it clear that all persons and authorities in Nigeria are bound to obey court orders. Any breach of this duty, they argue, would be a direct affront to the supremacy of the law. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s threat of legal action therefore underscores the critical importance of compliance with judicial pronouncements in sustaining democratic order.

The senator’s warning letter has attracted widespread attention, especially from civil society groups monitoring legislative affairs. Some advocacy organizations have expressed support for her stance, describing it as a bold defense of the judiciary’s authority. They argue that elected representatives cannot be denied access to the legislative chamber when a competent court has already affirmed their right to sit.

For Akpoti-Uduaghan, the matter appears to be both legal and personal. She maintains that her constituents deserve representation without unnecessary bureaucratic interference. Her allies say she views the obstruction as an attempt to silence her voice in the Senate, a move that undermines democratic representation.

Reactions from members of the public have also been polarized. While some believe the clerk is merely exercising caution by awaiting further judicial clarity, others see his actions as a blatant disregard for the law. The unfolding scenario has ignited debates about the balance of power between the judiciary and legislative bureaucracy.

As the September 15 deadline approaches, pressure continues to mount on the leadership of the National Assembly to address the matter decisively. Failure to do so could result in a protracted legal and political confrontation that risks distracting the legislature from its core mandate of lawmaking and oversight.

The next few days are likely to be crucial. If Akpoti-Uduaghan’s warning is ignored, her legal team has vowed to press contempt charges and seek disciplinary sanctions against the clerk. The outcome could significantly influence how future disputes between legislators and assembly administrators are resolved in Nigeria.

For now, the senator remains resolute. She insists that nothing will deter her from reclaiming her rightful place in the chamber. Her message to the clerk is unequivocal; respect the rule of law or face the consequences in court.