The Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, ruling it unconstitutional and ordering her reinstatement. Justice Binta Nyako emphasized that the suspension deprived the people of Kogi Central of effective representation for nearly 180 days, a period almost equivalent to the Senate’s annual sitting days.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension followed a confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over seating arrangements and her public allegation of sexual harassment against him, which he denied. The Senate had suspended her for alleged gross misconduct.
Justice Nyako criticized the Senate’s rules and the Legislative Houses, Powers & Privileges Act for not limiting suspension duration, stating, “The court is not saying that the Senate lacks the power to sanction a member. However, such sanctions must not negate the constitutional right of constituents to be represented in parliament.”
The court also found Akpoti-Uduaghan in contempt over a satirical Facebook apology and ordered her to publish a formal apology in two national newspapers and on social media within seven days, along with a N5 million fine.
Senate Spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu responded that the Senate would not immediately reinstate the senator, noting the court upheld the Senate’s disciplinary powers. He said Akpoti-Uduaghan must first comply with the court’s orders before the Senate would reconsider her status.
Paul Dauda, SAN, Senate counsel, described the ruling as a partial victory, highlighting the court’s affirmation of the Senate’s right to discipline members and the contempt ruling but noting the court did not mandate lifting the suspension.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar praised the court’s ruling and Akpoti-Uduaghan’s courage in challenging her suspension, emphasizing the importance of protecting women’s rights in governance.