The Federal High Court in Abuja has ruled that the Senate must recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, after a six-month suspension imposed on March 6.
Justice Binta Nyako described the suspension as "excessive" and stated that it deprived Akpoti-Uduaghan's constituents of their right to representation.
The court emphasized that while the Senate has the power to discipline its members, such sanctions must not be excessive and must respect the rights of constituents to be represented.
However, the court also found Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt for a satirical apology she posted on her Facebook page. As a result, she has been fined N5 million and ordered to publish a public apology in two national dailies within seven days and on her Facebook page within two days.
The court ruled that Senate President Godswill Akpabio was within his rights to deny Akpoti-Uduaghan the opportunity to speak during plenary since she wasn't in her designated seat.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for six months following allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and violating Senate rules. The suspension was part of a heated session in March 2024.
There have been attempts to recall Akpoti-Uduaghan, with INEC receiving a petition that was later deemed non-compliant with constitutional requirements.
