A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ruled that the Nigerian Senate exceeded its constitutional powers by suspending Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, declaring the suspension illegal and ordering her immediate return to the Senate.
Justice Binta Nyako, who delivered the judgment on Friday, described the Senate’s action as lacking legal justification and ruled that the suspension was “excessive” and inconsistent with the constitutional rights of a duly elected senator.
The court held that legislative bodies, while empowered to regulate their proceedings, cannot arbitrarily suspend elected members in a manner that deprives constituents of representation.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, had challenged her suspension in court, arguing that it violated her fundamental rights and those of her constituents. The judge agreed, stating that such disciplinary measures must follow due process and cannot override democratic principles.
The ruling is expected to reignite discussions on legislative overreach and the limits of parliamentary privilege in Nigeria’s democracy.
