A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ruled that the Nigerian Senate overstepped its constitutional boundaries by suspending Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, declaring the action unlawful and ordering her immediate reinstatement.
Delivering the landmark judgment on Friday, Justice Binta Nyako described the Senate’s decision as “excessive” and lacking a clear legal basis. The court emphasized that the legislative body had no authority to bar an elected senator from performing her constitutional duties without due process grounded in law.
“The suspension was beyond the powers of the Senate and inconsistent with democratic principles,” Justice Nyako stated.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was controversially suspended following heated debates and allegations of misconduct — charges she strongly denied. Her suspension drew widespread criticism from civil society groups and legal experts who viewed it as an attack on legislative independence and representation.
With the court’s decision, the Senate is now compelled to restore her rights and allow her full participation in parliamentary activities.
Reacting to the ruling, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed relief and described the verdict as a victory for democracy, justice, and the people of Kogi Central.
