LunagisthubCourt of Appeal Upholds Senator Natasha’s Suspension
The Court of Appeal in Abuja has ruled in favor of the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, for misconduct. The appellate court held that the Senate acted within its powers and did not breach Natasha’s fundamental rights.
The suspension stemmed from an incident on February 20, 2025, when the Senate President allocated a new seat to Natasha, and she refused to accept the order. The court ruled that Natasha should have moved to the new seat and that the Senate was right to enforce its rules following her persistent refusal to obey the order.
The Court of Appeal dismissed Natasha’s claim that her suspension was carried out in violation of an order by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, noting that the matter started afresh with Justice Binta Nyako after Justice Egwuatu recused himself. However, the court faulted the contempt charge against Natasha and set aside the N5 million fine imposed on her by Justice Binta Nyako due to the failure to serve forms 48 and 49 .
The ruling affirms the Senate’s power to discipline its members and ensures orderliness in the conduct of Senate proceedings. The court’s decision is a significant development in the ongoing saga between Natasha and the Senate .
The case highlights the complexities of parliamentary procedures and the limits of judicial intervention. As the matter may potentially be taken to the Supreme Court, it remains to be seen how the highest court will rule on this matter.
Lunagisthub
