A recent court ruling has cast doubt on the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, but her return to the Senate isn’t guaranteed just yet.
The Kogi Central senator had been suspended earlier this year after clashing with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The disagreement, which became public, led to accusations and a heated fallout that saw Akpoti removed from parliamentary duties for half the legislative year.
However, a Federal High Court in Abuja has now ruled that the suspension was excessive and unfair to the people she represents. The judge highlighted that such a lengthy suspension denies constituents their voice in national matters, something that goes against the constitution.
That said, the court also found Akpoti in contempt over a Facebook post mocking the situation. As a result, she’s been ordered to apologise publicly and pay a ₦5 million fine.
The Senate says it won’t take any action until she complies with these conditions. According to the Senate spokesperson, her apology will be reviewed before a decision is made on whether she will be recalled.
The development has sparked conversation across the country, with many, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, praising Akpoti for standing her ground.