The Federal High Court in Abuja has lifted its earlier ruling that stopped the suspension of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate.
The decision was made on Wednesday by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, who reviewed arguments presented by both sides in the legal battle.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had initially sought the court’s intervention through an ex-parte motion to prevent the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct from investigating misconduct allegations against her. The committee, led by Senator Neda Imasuem, was tasked with looking into the matter.
In her legal action, she named the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate, its President, and the committee chairman as the first to fourth defendants. The case was marked as FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025.
On March 4, Justice Egwuatu had granted an interim order, temporarily halting any disciplinary measures against Akpoti-Uduaghan. This order stated that any decision taken against her while the case was ongoing would be considered null and void.
However, despite the court’s ruling, the Senate proceeded with her suspension on March 6, barring her from legislative activities for six months over alleged misconduct during the February 20 plenary session.
In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan filed a contempt case against the Senate, arguing that the suspension was a direct violation of the court’s directive.
The Senate’s legal representative, Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN), countered her claims, stating that the court order was unclear and interfered with the Senate’s constitutional responsibilities. He argued that enforcing the order would violate the principle of separation of powers.
On the other hand, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyer, Michael Numa (SAN), urged the court to reject the Senate’s argument, insisting that the defendants had deliberately ignored a valid court order.
After reviewing the case, Justice Egwuatu decided to lift the initial order, allowing the Senate’s decision to remain in effect. The case has now been adjourned until March 25, when all pending applications will be heard.
