In a dramatic twist to a long-running legislative battle, the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing her six-month suspension by the Senate as excessive, unlawful, and in violation of Section 14(2) of the Senate’s Privileges Act.
The court held that the action of the Senate amounted to a denial of representation for the people of Kogi Central Senatorial District and failed to meet the standards of fairness expected from a democratic institution.
Delivering judgment, Justice Fadimatu Rabiu ruled:
“The suspension of a serving Senator for a period of six months is not only excessive but lacks legal justification under the existing laws. The people of her constituency have a constitutional right to be represented at all times.”
But in a surprising counterbalance, the court also found Senator Natasha guilty of contempt of court for making comments on social media while the case was still pending in court.
As a result, she has been ordered to issue a public apology in two national newspapers and on Facebook, while also paying a ₦5 million fine to the Federal Government within seven days.
Justice Rabiu emphasized the importance of respect for the judiciary, stating:
“Public office holders must not trivialize court proceedings or attempt to sway public opinion while matters are still under judicial consideration.”
The judgment has ignited reactions across the political space. While many hail the reinstatement as a win for democratic accountability, others believe the contempt ruling serves as a cautionary tale for politicians eager to litigate in the court of public opinion.
Senator Natasha is yet to issue an official statement, but sources close to her confirmed she will obey the ruling in its entirety.