The legal battle over the suspension of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken a new turn as the Federal High Court in Abuja lifted its earlier order restraining the Senate from enforcing disciplinary action against her.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu, in a ruling on Wednesday, overturned the previous injunction that had temporarily blocked the Senate’s decision, effectively allowing the suspension to stand.
The controversy began when Akpoti-Uduaghan challenged the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct’s move to investigate her for alleged misconduct during a February 20 plenary session. Seeking judicial intervention, she filed a suit against the National Assembly leadership, prompting the court to issue an interim injunction on March 4, halting any disciplinary action against her.
Despite the court order, the Senate proceeded with her six-month suspension on March 6, prompting the senator to accuse the legislative body of contempt. She argued that the move disregarded a binding court ruling and sought legal redress to have it reversed.
Representing the Senate, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) challenged the injunction, arguing that the judiciary had no authority to interfere in parliamentary processes, citing the doctrine of separation of powers. He maintained that the court’s ruling had been ambiguous and could not override the Senate’s constitutional role in enforcing discipline among its members.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel, Michael Numa (SAN), countered, insisting that the suspension was a deliberate violation of judicial authority. He urged the court to hold the Senate accountable for its actions.
After reviewing arguments from both sides, Justice Egwuatu ruled in favour of the Senate, setting aside the earlier order. The matter has been adjourned until March 25 for further proceedings.
The ruling means Akpoti-Uduaghan remains suspended unless the court or the Senate revisits the decision.
