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.

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‎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.

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‎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.

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

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‎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.

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‎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.

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‎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.

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

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

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

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

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

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