By Emeka Amaefula
COURT ORDERS FOR REINSTATEMENT OF SENATOR NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN
The Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled that the Nigerian Senate must reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial zone. The court found her six-month suspension excessive and in violation of Section 14(2) of the Senate’s Privileges Act.
Excessive Suspension
Justice Binta Nyako stated that the suspension was unduly harsh, depriving the people of Kogi Central of valid representation. The court advised the Senate to review its rules on sanctions.
Contempt of Court
However, the court also found Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt for commenting on social media while the case was ongoing. She was ordered to:- Apologize in two national dailies and on Facebook
– Pay a fine of N5 million to the federal government within seven days; The judge held that her satirical apology on Facebook was not sufficient and ran foul of the court’s order.
Background
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate on March 6 for alleged misconduct and violating standing rules. The suspension stemmed from her refusal to comply with the chamber’s seating arrangement during a plenary session on February 20, 2025.
Separate Cybercrime Charges
This case is distinct from the recent cybercrime charges brought against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, for which she was granted bail.
——–Emeka Amaefula ——–+234(0)8111813069—–
