By Emmanuel Kwada
The Nigerian Senate has set conditions for the reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following a Federal High Court ruling that nullified her six-month suspension. The court declared the suspension “unconstitutional and unlawful,” but the Senate insists it retains the power to discipline its members.
Justice Binta Nyako ruled that the suspension was excessive, depriving Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents of adequate representation. The judge advised the Senate to review its rules on sanctions.
Senate Spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan must comply with the court’s directives, including publishing an apology in two national dailies and paying damages of N5 million to the court, before the Senate reconvenes to deliberate on her reinstatement.
The Senate’s lawyer, Paul Dauda, SAN, described the ruling as a partial victory, particularly regarding the issue of civil contempt and social media posts made during the case. Dauda noted that the court’s directive for Akpoti-Uduaghan to take down satirical apologies and publish proper ones was a win for the Senate.
Akpoti-Uduaghan must comply with the court’s directives, including publishing an apology in two national dailies and paying damages of N5 million to the court, before the Senate reconvenes to deliberate on her reinstatement
The Senate awaits Akpoti-Uduaghan’s compliance with the court’s directives, after which it will reconvene to determine the next course of action regarding her reinstatement.
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