Court Reverses Order Nullifying Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension
A Federal High Court in Abuja has vacated its earlier order nullifying the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate. Justice Obiora Egwuatu, presiding over the case, set aside the March 4 order on Wednesday after hearing arguments from both the plaintiff’s and defendants’ counsels. The decision marks a significant development in the legal battle between the Kogi Central senator and the Senate over her suspension.
Background of the Case
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate on February 25, 2025, following allegations of misconduct during a plenary session on February 20. The Senate referred the matter to its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct for investigation.
In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan filed a motion ex-parte at the Federal High Court, seeking an interim injunction to restrain the Senate from proceeding with the investigation. On March 4, Justice Egwuatu granted five reliefs, including Order Number Four, which declared any action taken by the defendants during the pendency of the suit as null, void, and of no effect.
Senate’s Motion to Vacate the Order
The Senate, represented by its lawyer Chikaosolu Ojukwu, SAN, filed a motion on March 17, seeking to set aside Order Number Four. Ojukwu argued that the order was interlocutory in nature and should not have been granted. He also contended that the order was vague, ambiguous, and lacked specificity, potentially leading to a constitutional crisis and anarchy.
“The order offends the doctrine of separation of powers as enshrined in Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This honorable court lacks the jurisdiction to restrain parliament from conducting its constitutional duties,” Ojukwu stated.
He further argued that enforcing the order would halt the Senate’s legislative duties, creating a constitutional crisis.
Court’s Ruling
After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Egwuatu agreed with the Senate’s submissions and vacated Order Number Four. The court adjourned the case to March 25 for the hearing of all pending applications.
Recall Process Allegations
Meanwhile, reports have emerged of a recall process initiated by constituents in Kogi Central, aimed at removing Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from office. The process, which reportedly began in Okehi Local Government Area, saw constituents signing a petition to recall the senator.
However, Gabriel Longpet, the Kogi State Resident Electoral Commissioner, denied knowledge of any official recall process. “I am not aware of any recall process, apart from the unconfirmed reports flying about on social media. No one has contacted me about any recall in any part of the state,” Longpet told THISDAY.
Allegations have also surfaced that constituents were misled into signing the recall petition. A town crier reportedly invited people to an empowerment program, only for them to be asked to submit their voter card numbers in exchange for N2,000.
Implications of the Court’s Decision
The court’s decision to vacate the order nullifying Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has significant implications for the ongoing legal and political battle. It reaffirms the Senate’s authority to conduct investigations and enforce disciplinary measures against its members, while also highlighting the judiciary’s role in interpreting constitutional provisions.
The case underscores the tension between legislative independence and judicial oversight, particularly in matters involving the internal affairs of the National Assembly.
Next Steps
As the case adjourns to March 25 for further hearings, stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments. The outcome of the pending applications will determine the next course of action for both Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate.
Meanwhile, the allegations surrounding the recall process raise questions about the integrity of such initiatives and the need for transparency in political processes.
