- Akpabio queries suit
Nigeria’s Senate, on Monday, ruled out a reversal of the six-month suspension imposed on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central.
This is even as the Nigerian American Coalition for Justice and Democracy (NACJD) condemned her suspension describing it as a disgraceful act—conveniently orchestrated on International Women’s Day Day which “exposes the entrenched impunity within Nigeria’s highest legislative body.”
NACJD in a press statement stressed that: “The brazen and unlawful suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Nigerian Senate is an outrageous assault on justice, democracy, and the rule of law. “
Below are excerpts from the statement:
The Nigerian American Coalition for Justice and Democracy (NACJD) unequivocally condemns this travesty and will not stand idle while due process is trampled upon.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has bravely exposed serious allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Instead of ensuring a transparent and impartial investigation, the Senate opted for a hasty and illegal suspension—blatantly defying a court order. The absence of a fair hearing, the silencing of the accuser, and Akpabio’s self-serving recusal from the matter demonstrate a shocking disregard for justice. This reckless abuse of power cannot and will not go unchallenged.
This move is a direct attack on women’s rights, accountability, and Nigeria’s democratic institutions. It signals to the world that Nigeria’s Senate prioritizes shielding powerful men over upholding the principles of fairness and justice. Such cowardice and complicity will not escape international scrutiny.
NACJD demands the immediate and unconditional reinstatement of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. Furthermore, we insist that the Senate initiate a fair, independent, and transparent hearing into the allegations against Senator Akpabio within seven days. Failure to do so will compel us to escalate this matter to international bodies, including the United States Congress, the United Nations, and other global agencies. We will seek targeted sanctions against Senator Akpabio and all complicit members of the Nigerian Senate, including visa bans, asset freezes, and restrictions on international engagements.
We stand resolute against this brazen injustice. This is not just about one senator—it is about defending democracy, protecting women’s voices, and ensuring that no one is above the law. NACJD will relentlessly pursue all available measures until justice is served. The world is watching. Nigeria’s Senate must decide whether it stands for justice or perpetuates lawlessness.
In the meantime, Senate spokesman, Yemi Adaramodu, speaking exclusively with The PUNCH on Monday, dismissed any pressure to reinstate Akpoti-Uduaghan, emphasising that the legislative body would adhere strictly to its rules.
He said, “There is no pressure anywhere that can take our eyes away from our noble statutes. The Senate will always regulate her conduct, as empowered in the Nigerian Constitution and as enshrined in our Standing Orders.
“The Senate is currently busy, working on the tax reform bills and preparing equally for the constitution review. We want to reflect the feelings of Nigerians on the Electoral Act before the 2027 elections.”
Taking a rather evasive position, the Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, also asserted that: “There is no pressure,” adding, however, that “Sometimes it is wisdom to allow time to heal wounds.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, after the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions found her guilty of breaching the Senate Standing Orders.
Her suspension followed a heated exchange with Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary.
Besides, Senate President Akpabio has contested the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court in Abuja to hear Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suit challenging her suspension.
Through his legal team, led by Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), Akpabio argued that the court had no authority to interfere in the internal affairs of the Senate, insisting that legislative matters should be resolved internally.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had approached the Federal High Court seeking to stop the Senate Ethics Committee from investigating her.
On March 4, 2025, Justice Obiora Egwuatu summoned the Senate to appear before it and explain why Akpoti-Uduaghan’s prayers should not be granted.
The court directed the Senate to justify, within 72 hours, why it should not be permanently restrained from investigating the senator for alleged misconduct.
Justice Egwuatu also ordered that all court documents be served on the National Assembly through its Clerk or by publication in two national newspapers.
At the resumed hearing on Monday, Ogunwumiju argued that the plaintiff had not properly served him the court processes.
However, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel, Michael Numa (SAN), countered that all parties had been served, presenting affidavits of service.
After reviewing the documents, Justice Egwuatu confirmed service and adjourned the case until March 25, 2025, directing all parties to file necessary responses before the next hearing.
Akwa Ibom group tackles Saraki
In a related development, the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Professionals in Akwa Ibom State has condemned former Senate President Bukola Saraki for his comments on the Natasha-Akpabio dispute.
Saraki had called for an open, transparent, and fair investigation by the Senate, but the Akwa Ibom group accused him of attempting to interfere in the Senate’s internal matters.
In a statement signed by its National President, Edidiong John, and National Secretary, Kemfon Neke, the group argued that Saraki’s remarks could undermine due process.
“The pendency of this case in the judicial system renders any parallel investigation by the Senate improper and beyond its authority at this stage. This is not a matter of politicization, but a straightforward application of legal and parliamentary norms,” the statement read.
The group urged Saraki to respect the legal process, emphasising that Akpoti-Uduaghan had already filed a petition with the Senate Committee on Ethics, which would determine whether the Senate had jurisdiction over the matter.
“It is only the courts and the Ethics Committee that are the proper avenues for resolution. Nigerians expect the Senate to uphold its integrity and credibility within the bounds of the law,” the statement added.
The Senate is set to resume plenary on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
