The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed June 27, 2025, as the date for delivering its final judgment in the controversial lawsuit filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan challenging her suspension from the Senate. The presiding judge, Justice Binta Nyako, made the announcement during a court session on Monday, following months of legal arguments and submissions from both parties.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, had approached the court after her sudden suspension from legislative duties in March 2025, a decision she described as unconstitutional, politically motivated, and aimed at silencing her advocacy on national issues. Her suspension, which lasted several weeks, sparked widespread debate across the country and drew criticism from civil society organizations and some fellow lawmakers.
At the heart of the case is the legality of the Senate’s disciplinary powers, particularly the process through which Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended. Her legal team argued that the Senate violated her right to fair hearing and due process, citing that the matter for which she was suspended did not undergo any investigation by the appropriate committee before disciplinary action was taken.
In her affidavit, the senator claimed she was suspended after raising critical issues about the allocation of federal funds to her constituency, and for questioning the alleged mismanagement of resources under a Senate committee’s purview. She insisted that her suspension was an act of retaliation and intimidation, rather than a consequence of any legislative misconduct.
During previous court proceedings, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lead counsel, Mike Ozekhome (SAN), described the Senate’s action as an “abuse of legislative privilege” and called on the judiciary to protect the democratic rights of elected officials. He maintained that the Nigerian Constitution does not give the Senate the power to unilaterally suspend a member without following due process and allowing for full representation.
On the other side, the Senate, represented by its legal counsel, argued that the Red Chamber has the constitutional authority to maintain order within its proceedings, including the power to discipline its members. According to the defense, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s conduct during a plenary session violated the rules of the Senate, and the leadership acted within its rights by suspending her.
In April, Justice Nyako had listened to final submissions from both parties and adjourned the matter for judgment. She emphasized the importance of interpreting the Constitution in a manner that respects democratic values while also preserving the autonomy of the legislative arm of government.
The ruling on June 27 is expected to have far-reaching implications not only for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s political career but also for the broader relationship between the legislature and the judiciary in Nigeria’s democratic structure. Legal experts have noted that the court’s decision could set a precedent on whether elected lawmakers can be suspended without a transparent and fair hearing.
Meanwhile, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has continued to maintain a public presence since her suspension, frequently addressing constituents and stakeholders on issues relating to governance, women empowerment, and social justice. Her supporters have described her legal battle as a courageous stand for accountability and democratic principles.
Reactions to the upcoming judgment have begun to surface. A coalition of civic organizations under the banner of the Democratic Rights Forum (DRF) has issued a statement urging the judiciary to uphold the rule of law and deliver justice without fear or favor. The DRF noted that the outcome of the case could impact the public’s confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
In her brief comments after the Monday session, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed optimism about the judiciary’s ability to deliver justice. “This is not just about me. It is about ensuring that no lawmaker, male or female, becomes a target for speaking up on behalf of the people,” she said. “I trust in the wisdom of the court to uphold our constitutional rights.”
Observers say the judgment will be closely watched by political actors, civil society, and legal scholars, especially in the wake of increasing concerns over the abuse of legislative powers in Nigeria. If the court rules in favor of the senator, it may force a review of internal legislative procedures and further define the limits of parliamentary immunity and privilege.
As the countdown to June 27 begins, all eyes are now on Justice Nyako’s courtroom, where a decision will be made that could redefine the balance of power within Nigeria’s political system.
