By John Umeh
A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled June 27, 2025, as the date to deliver judgment in the case challenging the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Nigerian Senate.
Justice Inyang Ekwo fixed the date after hearing final arguments from counsels representing both parties in the suit. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, was suspended by the Senate in April 2025 following a controversial altercation during plenary. The suspension sparked public outcry and was met with legal resistance from the senator, who described the action as unconstitutional and politically motivated.
In her suit, Akpoti-Uduaghan is seeking the nullification of her suspension and a declaration that the Senate violated her fundamental rights to fair hearing and representation. She also asked the court to compel the Senate to pay damages for the alleged infringement on her legislative mandate.
The Senate, through its legal team, maintained that it acted within its powers to discipline members who breach the rules of conduct, citing the need to maintain order and decorum in parliamentary proceedings.
After listening to the submissions from both sides, Justice Ekwo adjourned the matter for judgment, stating that the court would deliver its decision on June 27.
The outcome of the judgment is expected to set a precedent on the limits of legislative disciplinary powers and the legal rights of elected lawmakers.
