Legal Battle Over Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension Escalates as Akpabio Heads to Supreme Court

Legal Battle Over Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension Escalates as Akpabio Heads to Supreme Court

The legal tussle surrounding the suspension of the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has taken a new turn as Senate President Godswill Akpabio has again approached the Supreme Court for intervention.

This latest move marks an escalation in the dispute, which has continued to generate debate within political and legal circles over legislative authority, due process, and the limits of internal parliamentary discipline. Akpabio’s decision to seek relief from the apex court is aimed at challenging earlier legal positions and clarifying constitutional questions arising from the senator’s suspension.

Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the Senate President is asking the Supreme Court to determine whether the judiciary can interfere in the internal affairs of the National Assembly, particularly decisions taken by the Senate in the exercise of its disciplinary powers. The appeal is also expected to address conflicting interpretations of legislative privilege and the rights of elected lawmakers.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has been controversial, drawing reactions from civil society groups, legal experts, and constituents in Kogi Central, some of whom argue that the action undermines democratic representation. Others, however, maintain that the Senate acted within its rules and standing orders.

Legal analysts say the Supreme Court’s eventual ruling could set a far-reaching precedent on the balance of power between the legislature and the judiciary, especially in matters involving sanctions against lawmakers.

As the case moves to the country’s highest court, stakeholders across the political spectrum are watching closely, with expectations that the judgment will bring clarity and finality to the protracted dispute.