Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on May 13, 2025, to challenge her suspension from the Nigerian Senate. The suspension, which followed allegations of misconduct, has been a subject of national discourse.
According to Channels Television, Akpoti-Uduaghan's legal team filed a suit against the National Assembly, the Senate, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Neda Imasuem, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct. The senator contends that her suspension infringes upon her constitutional rights and is an attempt to suppress her freedom of speech.
The case, initially assigned to Justice Obiorah Egwuatu, was reassigned to Justice Binta Nyako following the former's withdrawal.
During the hearing, Akpoti-Uduaghan's counsel, Jibrin Okutekpa (SAN), confirmed the submission of all necessary documents. However, the defense raised concerns about a satirical letter of apology the senator posted on Facebook, alleging it violated a court order prohibiting parties from making public comments on the matter.
In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan argued that the letter was a form of expression and did not breach any court directives. She maintains that her suspension is linked to her earlier allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Akpabio, a claim he has denied.
The court has yet to deliver a verdict, but the case underscores the ongoing tensions within the Nigerian legislative body and raises questions about the balance between parliamentary authority and individual rights.
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