Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled June 27, 2025, to deliver the final judgment in the suit filed by suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan challenging her suspension from the Senate.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, over allegations of misconduct, which she claims were unfair and influenced by bias. She filed the suit against the National Assembly, the Senate, the Senate President, and Senator Neda Imasuem, chair of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct.
The case was initially handled by Justice Obiorah Egwuatu, who later recused himself due to allegations of bias, and it was reassigned to Justice Nyako. Both parties have submitted their documents, and the court will also rule on contempt claims related to the case.
During proceedings, the Senate’s legal team accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of disobeying a court order by posting a satirical apology to the Senate President on social media, a claim her lawyers denied, insisting the statement was not hers.
Justice Nyako indicated she would first rule on the contempt issues and preliminary objections before addressing the main suit. The judgment on all matters is expected on June 27.
The suspension and ensuing legal battle have drawn significant attention, highlighting tensions within Nigeria’s Senate and raising questions about legislative discipline and fairness.