The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Senate to immediately recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended from the National Assembly for six months.
Delivering judgement, Justice Binta Nyako described the suspension of the lawmaker, who represents Kogi Central, as “excessive” and declared that it infringed upon the rights of her constituents to representation in the Senate.
The court held that while the Senate has the power to discipline its members, such sanctions must not overreach or undermine democratic principles. “The suspension is excessive. Lawmakers are entitled to sit for 181 days in every legislative year. Suspending a senator for six months is akin to pushing her away from her responsibilities to her constituents for almost the entire session,” Justice Nyako said.
The judge further ruled that both Chapter 8 of the Senate Standing Rules and Section 14 of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, which were relied upon to justify Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, were overreaching and failed to specify any maximum period for which a lawmaker could be suspended.
“The right of constituents to be represented must not be eroded by internal disciplinary measures,” Justice Nyako added.
However, the court upheld the action of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, who had denied Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan the opportunity to speak during plenary, ruling that Akpabio was within his rights since the senator was not occupying her designated seat at the time.
The judge also dismissed Akpabio’s argument that the court lacked jurisdiction over the matter, affirming that the judiciary has the authority to intervene when constitutional rights are at stake. “The internal affairs of the Senate cannot be used as a shield when the fundamental rights of citizens and their representatives are in question,” Justice Nyako held.
In a separate ruling, the court fined Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan ₦1 million for breaching an earlier order that restrained both parties from making public statements concerning the case. Justice Nyako ordered her to publish an apology in two national newspapers within seven days.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended earlier this year following allegations of misconduct during Senate proceedings. The suspension sparked outrage among her supporters, who viewed the decision as politically motivated.
With the court’s latest ruling, the Senate is now compelled to reinstate the embattled senator, restoring her seat and legislative responsibilities.
Boluwatife Enome
