A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a lawsuit challenging the six‑month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the National Assembly. Justice James Omotosho threw out the suit filed by ten plaintiffs, including Ovavu Illiyasu, on the ground that they lacked legal standing to bring the matter before the court.
The plaintiffs had contested the validity of Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s suspension, imposed on 6 March for allegedly violating Senate standing rules. They argued that the suspension would unfairly affect their senatorial district and sought her immediate recall. However, the court found that the plaintiffs did not have the necessary locus standi to institute the action and dismissed the suit for lack of merit.
Despite the court’s ruling, Akpoti‑Uduaghan has already returned to her office at the National Assembly after the six‑month suspension period ended. Her office, located in Suite 2.05 of the Senate Wing, had been sealed since the suspension began. On 23 September, the National Assembly unsealed the office, and she resumed her duties amid cheering supporters.
During the suspension, Akpoti‑Uduaghan continued to perform her duties as a senator, maintaining that she had not violated any rules. The Senate, however, held that her suspension would be reviewed only after the court process concluded. The matter remains under legal review, with the Senate awaiting a ruling from the Court of Appeal before taking any further administrative action.
The Senate has defended its decision to suspend Akpoti‑Uduaghan, citing the need to adhere to its rules to preserve the institution’s integrity. While her return marks the end of the suspension period, the legal battle continues. The Court of Appeal’s ruling will likely determine the next steps in a case that has significant implications for the Senate’s authority and the rights of its members.
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