The National Assembly says no administrative action can be taken on notification by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to resume legislative duties in the Senate after the expiration of her six-month suspension.
The acting clerk of the National Assembly, Yahaya Danzaria, stated this in a letter addressed to Ms Akpoti-Uduaghan regarding her earlier notification to resume legislative duties on September 4, following the completion of her suspension.
Mr Danzaria said that the matter was still sub judice due to a pending suit before the Court of Appeal.
“I am directed to acknowledge the receipt of your letter notifying this office of your intention to resume sitting and other legislative duties in the Senate on September 4, which you claim is the expiration date of the six-month suspension imposed on you by the 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 the Court of Appeal. The matter, therefore, remains sub judice until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in 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 the Senate’s decision on the matter as soon as it is resolved. Please accept, distinguished senator, the assurances of my highest regards,” Mr Danzaria said.
Ms Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 for alleged gross misconduct and violation of Senate rules.
She notified the clerk to the National Assembly of her intention to resume duties on September 4, stating that it marked the end of her suspension.
(NAN)