In a major court decision on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the Nigerian Senate to bring back Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central. The court ruled that her six-month suspension was too harsh and unfair to the people she represents.
Why Was She Suspended?
Senator Natasha was suspended by the Senate for six months. However, the court said this punishment went too far because it meant the people of Kogi Central had no voice in the Senate for a long time. Justice Nyako explained that although the Senate has the power to punish its members, the punishment must not be so serious that it affects the rights of ordinary citizens.
What Did the Court Say?
Justice Nyako said some of the Senate’s rules — especially Chapter 8 of the Senate Standing Rules and Section 14 of the Legislative Houses, Powers, and Privileges Act — were too broad and allowed the Senate to act without clear limits. These rules did not say how long a lawmaker could be suspended, which is a problem.
She also said that Senate President Godswill Akpabio was not wrong when he stopped Senator Natasha from speaking during a plenary session, especially since she was not sitting in her assigned seat. However, the court still told Senator Natasha to apologise to the Senate.
Apology and Fine
The court also fined Senator Natasha ₦5 million because she disobeyed a previous court order. That order said everyone involved in the case should avoid making public comments while the case was still in court. Since she went against that order, the fine was given as a penalty.
Justice Nyako also told her to publish an apology in two national newspapers within seven days.
What Happens Next?
Now, the Senate must recall Senator Natasha and allow her to return to her duties. At the same time, she must follow the court’s instructions — apologise and pay the fine.
Why It Matters
This ruling is important because it shows that while lawmakers can discipline themselves, they must do so in a way that respects the rights of the people who voted for them. The court also made it clear that it can step in when actions taken by lawmakers go too far, especially if it affects the citizens.
