BREAKING: Appeal Court Backs Senate, Upholds Natasha Akpoti’s Suspension

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has affirmed the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate.

The court ruled that the Red Chamber acted within the limits of its constitutional authority when it disciplined the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.

In its judgment, the appellate court stated that the Senate did not violate the senator’s parliamentary privileges or her fundamental rights by suspending her for misconduct.

The three-man panel of justices unanimously agreed that the disciplinary action taken against her followed the rules guiding proceedings of the Senate.

However, the court set aside the contempt ruling earlier issued against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. It also nullified the ₦5 million fine imposed on her over a satirical apology directed at Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Delivering the lead judgment, Justice Abba Muhammed explained that the Senate President acted lawfully when he refused to allow the senator to speak during plenary on February 20, 2025.

The court noted that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was not seated in the position officially assigned to her at the time she attempted to address the chamber.

According to the justices, Senate rules clearly empower the Senate President to allocate seats to lawmakers.

The court further held that members are only permitted to speak from their designated seats during plenary sessions.

It stressed that maintaining order and discipline in legislative proceedings is essential for the smooth running of the National Assembly.

The judges added that internal parliamentary regulations must be respected by all members, regardless of status or seniority.

Recall that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had approached the court to challenge her suspension, arguing that it was politically motivated and unlawful.