By Prince Amb (Dr) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla
PDP Southwest Ex-officio
In a constitutional democracy, the legislature is a pillar of law, order, and justice, serving as both a law-making body and a guardian of a nation’s democratic values. However, recent developments within Nigeria’s Senate have raised grave concerns regarding the integrity of these ideals. Chief among these issues is the Senate's blatant dismissal of a valid court order concerning Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central under the banner of the People's Democratic Party (PDP).
Senator Natasha was suspended from the Senate for six months, a move perceived by many as politically motivated. Seeking justice, she approached the Federal High Court, which ruled in her favor, mandating her reinstatement contingent upon her issuing an apology and paying a fine. Senator Natasha adhered to the court's directives, having met both conditions. Yet, astonishingly, she remains barred from accessing the red chamber.
This alarming scenario raises fundamental questions about the state of Nigerian democracy. When lawmakers who are supposed to uphold the Constitution openly disregard judicial authority, they not only send a troubling message to the public but also set a perilous precedent that undermines the rule of law. Are our legislators indicating to Nigerians that court orders can be selectively enforced or, worse, ignored? What legacy do they aspire to leave?
Further complicating matters is the conduct of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who has reportedly launched an appeal against the court's ruling—not through formal Senate procedures, but in a personal capacity. This action raises significant constitutional and procedural concerns. Can a Senate President unilaterally challenge a valid judicial decision without the formal backing of the Senate? If such actions go unchecked, what implications does it have for democracy and the essential principle of checks and balances?
Such behavior erodes the integrity of the legislative arm of government and constitutes a blatant violation of the separation of powers—a cornerstone of democratic governance. It fosters a culture of impunity and cultivates public distrust in our institutions. When the law applies only to ordinary citizens and is optional for the powerful, we risk descending from democracy into a guise of tyranny.
It is essential to recognize that Senator Natasha was democratically elected to represent the voices of Kogi Central. Her continued exclusion from the Senate is not merely an affront to her; it is an assault on the democratic rights and representation of her constituents. Her absence stifles thousands of voices, striking at the very heart of representative democracy.
Compounding this crisis is the Senate's recent decision to embark on a two-month recess, which conveniently aligns with the end of Senator Natasha’s unjust suspension. This timing raises suspicions of an orchestrated effort to prolong her exclusion and deny her the opportunity to fulfill her legislative duties. Such actions reek of institutional manipulation and a blatant abuse of power.
Key Questions for Nigerians to Consider
– What precedent are our lawmakers setting for the youth and citizenry of Nigeria?
– Are Nigerian senators above the law and immune from compliance with judicial directives?
– What type of leadership actively undermines the judiciary and disregards its constitutional oath?
The international community is watching closely. Democratic institutions, human rights organizations, and observers worldwide are scrutinizing Nigeria’s commitment to upholding judicial authority and maintaining democratic accountability. The Senate must recognize that it is not above the law. Democracy cannot thrive in an environment where selective justice and institutional disrespect for the rule of law are accepted norms.
As active participants in Nigeria’s democratic journey, we must call upon civil society groups, the media, and all conscientious Nigerians to rally in defense of our judiciary and the rule of law. The Senate must be compelled to comply with the court's judgment and facilitate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan's immediate resumption of her constitutional duties.
It is also crucial to clarify a point often misrepresented: the apology mandated by the court was directed specifically to the court and not to the Senate or its leadership. This was in response to a previous satirical letter from Senator Natasha, despite the court's directive for parties to refrain from public commentary. The apology is not an admission of guilt to Senate President Akpabio or his allies, a fact that has been distorted by some, including a controversial and misguided media figure from Bayelsa State. Such actions only serve to further complicate the public’s understanding of the issue.
# Conclusion: The Legacy of Our Senators
Our senators now stand at a crossroads, faced with a crucial decision regarding the legacy they wish to create: Will they choose to be seen as patriotic legislators who uphold the Constitution and rule of law, or as political opportunists who subvert democracy for personal gain?
History will undoubtedly judge them, either harshly or favorably, based on the choices they make at this critical juncture. It is imperative that they choose wisely—for the future of our democracy is at stake.
