No Reversal of Six-Month Suspension, Senate Spokesman Insists

The Nigerian Senate has ruled out any possibility of overturning the six-month suspension imposed on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central. The legislative body remains resolute in its decision, emphasizing adherence to its established rules and constitutional authority.

Speaking exclusively with FRONTPAGE on Monday, Senate spokesman Yemi Adaramodu dismissed any notion of external pressure influencing a reversal of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension. He reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to upholding its statutes and ensuring legislative discipline.

“There is no pressure anywhere that can take our eyes away from our noble statutes. The Senate will always regulate its conduct, as empowered by the Nigerian Constitution and as enshrined in our Standing Orders,” Adaramodu stated.

He further stressed that the Senate is currently preoccupied with critical legislative activities, including tax reform bills and preparations for the constitutional review, with an emphasis on refining the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 elections.

Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro also maintained a cautious stance on the issue, reiterating that there was no external pressure for reinstatement. However, he added, “Sometimes, it is wisdom to allow time to heal wounds.”

The Controversial Suspension and Legal Battle

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, following an inquiry by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which found her guilty of violating the Senate Standing Orders. The decision came after a heated exchange between her and Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary.

In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan initiated legal proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, challenging the Senate’s authority to suspend her. She also sought to halt any further investigations against her by the Senate Ethics Committee.

Her legal challenge gained traction when, on March 4, 2025, Justice Obiora Egwuatu directed the Senate to appear before the court and justify why it should not be permanently restrained from investigating her. The judge gave the Senate 72 hours to respond to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s request for an injunction.

Additionally, Justice Egwuatu ordered that all legal documents be served on the National Assembly through the Clerk or published in two national newspapers to ensure proper notification.

Senate President Akpabio’s Jurisdictional Objection

Senate President Akpabio, through his legal team led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Kehinde Ogunwumiju, has contested the Federal High Court’s jurisdiction in the matter. His legal counsel argued that the court lacked the authority to interfere in the internal affairs of the Senate, emphasizing that legislative discipline and proceedings should remain within the legislative body.

At the resumed court hearing on Monday, Ogunwumiju further contended that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team had not properly served the court processes on him. However, her counsel, Michael Numa (SAN), refuted the claim and presented affidavits of service to confirm that all necessary documents had been duly served.

After reviewing the submissions, Justice Egwuatu affirmed that service had been effected and adjourned the case to March 25, 2025, directing all parties to submit their legal responses before the next hearing.

Political and Regional Reactions to the Suspension

The suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked reactions beyond the Senate chambers, with various political figures and regional groups weighing in on the matter.

One notable reaction came from the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Professionals, an Akwa Ibom-based group, which condemned former Senate President Bukola Saraki for his comments on the dispute between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio. Saraki had earlier called for an open, transparent, and fair investigation by the Senate, urging the upper chamber to follow due process.

However, in a statement signed by the group’s National President, Edidiong John, and National Secretary, Kemfon Neke, they accused Saraki of attempting to meddle in Senate affairs, warning that his remarks could disrupt the legal 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 group’s statement read.

The statement further emphasized that Akpoti-Uduaghan had already petitioned the Senate Committee on Ethics, which is responsible for determining the Senate’s jurisdiction over the matter. The group insisted that only the courts and the Ethics Committee should handle the case, urging Saraki and other stakeholders to allow due process to take its course.

“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.

Implications for Senate Proceedings and Future Legislative Conduct

The Senate’s decision to uphold Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension sets a precedent for legislative discipline and underscores the upper chamber’s insistence on self-regulation. It also highlights the challenges in balancing internal legislative authority with judicial oversight.

Legal experts have noted that while the courts can adjudicate on issues of fundamental human rights, legislative bodies retain the authority to govern their internal affairs, including disciplinary actions against members. The case could potentially set a legal benchmark for future disputes between lawmakers and the legislative leadership.

Furthermore, the controversy surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension raises questions about political alignment within the Senate. With the 2027 general elections approaching, political analysts speculate that the ruling party may seek to consolidate its grip on the Senate by enforcing party discipline.

As the Senate prepares to resume plenary on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, all eyes remain on the unfolding legal and political battle between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership. Whether the courts will rule in favor of her reinstatement or uphold the Senate’s decision remains to be seen, but the case continues to be a significant test of Nigeria’s legislative and judicial processes.

For now, the Senate appears firm in its stance, sending a strong message that legislative discipline and adherence to parliamentary rules remain paramount in its operations.