A federal high court in Abuja has dismissed a lawsuit challenging the suspension of Senator Natasha Uduaghan-Apoti, representing Kogi Central. The suit, filed by Ovavu Illiyasu and nine others, contested the six-month suspension imposed on the senator due to alleged misconduct.

The plaintiffs argued that the suspension would unfairly deprive their senatorial district of representation in the Senate. They sought to have the court void the suspension, citing concerns that their district would be shortchanged. However, Justice James Omotosho ruled that the 10 plaintiffs lacked the legal authority, known as locus standi, to bring the matter before the court.

The court’s decision, delivered on Friday, emphasized that the plaintiffs failed to demonstrate a direct connection to the issue, which is a prerequisite for pursuing legal action. As a result, the judge dismissed the suit for lack of merit. The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/654/2025, had sought to invalidate the suspension on various grounds, including the potential impact on the senatorial district’s representation.

The suspension of Senator Uduaghan-Apoti has been a subject of controversy, with some arguing that it raises concerns about the rights of legislators and their constituents. The court’s ruling, however, suggests that the suspension will stand, at least for the time being. The decision may have implications for the balance of power in the Senate and the representation of Kogi Central in the legislative body.

The case highlights the complexities of Nigeria’s legal and legislative systems, where issues of representation and misconduct can have far-reaching consequences. As the country navigates its democratic processes, the role of the judiciary in resolving disputes and interpreting the law remains crucial. The dismissal of the lawsuit may pave the way for further developments in the case, including potential appeals or other legal challenges.