The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has said it has not been officially served with the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment delivered by the Federal High Court in Abuja, which reportedly nullified the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court had on Friday, July 4, ruled that the suspension of the Kogi Central Senator was excessive and ordered her reinstatement. However, the Senate insists it cannot act on the reported judgment until it receives and reviews the certified copy.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, the upper chamber confirmed awareness of the judgment but noted procedural delays in obtaining the full details.

“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,” the statement read. “However, the Senate is yet to be served with the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the said judgment.”

Adaramodu explained that the Senate’s legal counsel, who attended the hearing, confirmed that the full judgment was not read in open court. As a result, the Senate has submitted a formal request for the CTC to guide its legal response.

“Since no party to the case has been officially served the enrolled order of the judgment, none can enforce any perceived order or relief,” Adaramodu added.

He emphasized that the Senate is committed to the rule of law and will take necessary actions only after a full legal assessment of the court’s pronouncements.

“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 statement continued. “We urge the public to remain patient and assured of the Senate’s fidelity to due process.”

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended earlier this year over what the Senate described as “unparliamentary conduct,” a move that drew criticism from civil society groups and sparked legal action from the senator.

The latest development adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding political and legal drama surrounding the senator’s suspension and her quest for reinstatement.

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