The Nigerian Senate has doubled down on its decision to uphold the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, rejecting any notion of a reversal. On Monday, Senate spokesman Yemi Adaramodu told The PUNCH that no external pressure would sway the legislative body from enforcing its rules. “There is no pressure anywhere that can take our eyes away from our noble statutes,” Adaramodu stated, emphasizing the Senate’s commitment to its constitutional authority and Standing Orders. He highlighted the chamber’s current focus on tax reform bills and preparations for a constitutional review ahead of the 2027 elections, signaling a refusal to be distracted by the controversy.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, enacted on March 6, 2025, stemmed from a Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions finding that she breached Senate Standing Orders. The decision followed a tense confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio during a plenary session. Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro took a more conciliatory tone, denying pressure but suggesting, “Sometimes it is wisdom to allow time to heal wounds.” Despite this, the Senate’s official stance remains unyielding.
The suspension has sparked legal pushback. Akpoti-Uduaghan sought relief from the Federal High Court in Abuja, aiming to halt the Ethics Committee’s investigation into her alleged misconduct. On March 4, Justice Obiora Egwuatu ordered the Senate to justify within 72 hours why it should not be restrained, summoning respondents—including Akpabio—to appear. At Monday’s hearing, Akpabio’s counsel, Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that legislative affairs are internal matters beyond judicial oversight. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Michael Numa (SAN), insisted all parties had been served, a claim Justice Egwuatu upheld after reviewing affidavits. The case was adjourned to March 25, 2025, with parties directed to file responses.
Beyond the courtroom, the saga has drawn sharp reactions. Femi Falana condemned the suspension as “legislative recklessness,” while former Senate President Bukola Saraki and SERAP criticized Akpabio, calling for transparency. However, the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Professionals from Akwa Ibom rebuked Saraki, accusing him of meddling. In a statement by President Edidiong John and Secretary Kemfon Neke, the group argued that with the matter in court, any Senate investigation would be improper. “This is not a matter of politicization, but a straightforward application of legal and parliamentary norms,” they asserted, urging respect for judicial and Ethics Committee processes.
Posts on X reflect a mix of sentiments. Some users laud Akpoti-Uduaghan’s boldness, with one calling her clarity and defiance “refreshing” amid her suspension, while others decry the Senate’s actions as unjust, predicting her resilience will shine through. Another post suggested her legal team leverage the Senate’s alleged contempt of a prior court injunction, hinting at broader procedural battles ahead.
As the Senate resumes plenary on March 11, 2025, the standoff persists, pitting legislative autonomy against judicial oversight and public opinion. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s fate remains tied to the March 25 ruling, but the Senate’s resolute posture suggests a long fight looms.
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