N’assembly clerk says he lacks power to reinstate Natasha Akpoti

Natasha

The office of the clerk to the national assembly says it lacks power to allow Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the suspended senator representing Kogi central, to resume legislative duties.

In a statement on Monday, Bullah Bi-Allah, director of information at the office of the clerk, said the attention of the secretariat was drawn to media reports and public commentary on Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, her attempt to resume duties, and a petition by her lawyers, M. J. Numa & Partners LLP.Bi-Allah noted that the office of the clerk functions strictly as an administrative arm, supporting the senate in line with its resolutions, standing orders, and the 1999 Constitution.

He added that the clerk has no powers to review, reverse or interpret decisions of the senate.

On March 6, the senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months for “gross misconduct”.

Bi-Allah noted that while the decision was challenged in court, the federal high court did not invalidate the suspension, adding that no binding order has been issued to reverse or modify the resolution. Thecable