By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Nigerian Senate to immediately recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, declaring her suspension from the Red Chamber as unlawful and excessive.
Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Binta Nyako ruled that the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months was not only disproportionate but also violated her constitutional rights as an elected representative of her constituents.
“The suspension is excessive and goes beyond the powers conferred on the Senate by law,” Justice Nyako said, as she directed the National Assembly to reinstate the senator to her legislative duties without further delay.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended earlier this year following heated disagreements during a plenary session.
Her suspension sparked controversy across the country, with civil society groups and her supporters describing the move as politically motivated and an attempt to silence a vocal female lawmaker.
In her suit, the senator argued that her suspension denied her constituents representation in the Senate and infringed upon her fundamental right to fair hearing.
After series of pleadings exchange between both parties, the court upheld her claims, ruling that legislative bodies must exercise disciplinary powers within the boundaries of the law and due process.
As of press time, the Senate leadership is yet to comment on the ruling or announce when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan will be officially recalled.
