By Kogi News Tribune Staff Writer
Published: July 11, 2025
ABUJA — The Federal High Court in Abuja has released the Certified True Copy (CTC) of its ruling in the legal battle between suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Nigerian Senate, clarifying that her reinstatement was stated as an opinion, not a binding order.
The judgment, delivered by Justice Binta Nyako in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025, had sparked nationwide debate over whether the embattled senator had been officially ordered to return to the red chambers. The release of the CTC on Thursday has now resolved the controversy, highlighting the court’s nuanced stance on the matter.
According to the judgment, the court acknowledged procedural breaches by the plaintiff, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, and imposed sanctions accordingly. The senator was ordered to pay a ₦5 million fine to the Federal Government and publish a public apology in two national dailies and on her official Facebook page within seven days for contempt of court.
Justice Nyako clarified that although some of the issues raised were inchoate, they were valid for interpretation under fundamental rights enforcement. The court also ruled that several reliefs sought by the senator—especially those involving Senate Rules and privileges—required interpretation rather than definitive action.
Crucially, the judge stated:
“I am of the opinion that the Senate has the power to review the provisions of the Senate Rules… and I believe [it] should recall the Plaintiff and allow her to resume representing the people who sent her there.”
Legal analysts note that this wording confirms the reinstatement is a judicial opinion, not a direct order compelling the Senate to act.
Other key highlights from the judgment include:
Senate President’s Powers: The court affirmed that the Senate President has absolute authority under Order 6 of the Senate Rules to allocate or re-allocate seats to members without any precondition.
Suspension Duration: The court found the six-month suspension of the senator—equivalent to 180 sitting days—excessive and unconstitutional, as it could impede her ability to fulfill constitutional responsibilities under Section 63 of the 1999 Constitution.
Senate Rules vs. Legislative Act: Justice Nyako held that the Senate Rules are superior to the Legislative House (Powers & Privileges) Act when it comes to internal proceedings.
Privileges and Senate Conduct: The court emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to Senate procedures, stating that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s failure to sit in her allocated seat undermined the legitimacy of her claims.
The judgment has put the next step squarely in the hands of the Senate leadership. While the court encouraged her reinstatement, it stopped short of mandating it.
Political observers say the ball is now in the Senate’s court, as it must decide whether to comply with the court’s position or maintain its disciplinary stance.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has yet to issue a formal statement following the release of the CTC.
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