Senate President Godswill Akpabio has taken his legal battle over the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Supreme Court, challenging a Court of Appeal ruling that dismissed the Federal Government’s brief in the appeal.

Sources in Abuja revealed yesterday that Akpabio’s legal team is seeking the Supreme Court’s intervention, describing the appellate court’s decision as flawed and unfair.

The Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal had deemed Akpabio’s brief defective and incompetent, citing failure to adhere to mandatory provisions of the Court of Appeal Rules. The court also highlighted procedural errors, including unauthorized font size and line spacing, exceeding the 35-page limit, and failing to seek permission to correct these defects.

Following the appellate court ruling, Akpabio contends that the infractions were not minor technical errors but substantive issues that should have allowed him the chance to amend the brief. He argues that the Court of Appeal violated his constitutional right to a fair hearing by refusing to grant leave to correct the defects or allow the brief to exceed the page limit.

The dispute has sparked speculation about political motives, with observers suggesting the case reflects not only a legal confrontation but also a struggle for influence within the Senate.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team, however, remains confident in the judiciary, describing the Supreme Court appeal as a final attempt to overturn a decision reached according to the law.

Senate insiders say the conflict underscores deeper tensions between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan, whose relationship has been strained for months. The Kogi Central senator, a first-term lawmaker, has gained national attention for her assertive approach and willingness to challenge Senate leadership, a stance that some say threatens the established power dynamics.

A senator, speaking anonymously, noted: “This is no longer just a legal disagreement. It has become a struggle over authority and control.”