Senate Faces Backlash for Alleged Disregard of Court Order in Senator Natasha’s Suspension

The Nigerian Senate, under the leadership of President Godswill Akpabio, has drawn sharp criticism for suspending Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months despite a Federal High Court order restraining such action.

The disciplinary committee, led by Senator Neda Imaseun, found Natasha guilty of breaching Senate rules following her sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio during a February 20, 2025, plenary session. The suspension, effective March 6, 2025, was imposed for “bringing the Senate and its presiding officer into public disrepute.”

However, legal documents obtained by SaharaReporters reveal the Senate’s decision contradicted an interim court order issued on March 4, 2025. The Federal High Court, Abuja Division (Case No. FHC/ABJ/CS/384/25), had barred the Senate Ethics Committee from proceeding with its investigation until the matter’s hearing on March 10, 2025.

Legal expert Barrister Hamza Nuhu Dantani condemned the Senate’s actions as a violation of judicial authority and the rule of law. Citing precedents, including Adesoye v. Olagunju (1998) and Mobil Oil (Nig.) Ltd. v. Assan (1995), Dantani emphasized that court orders must be obeyed until legally overturned. He argued the Senate should have halted proceedings to comply with the injunction, rather than proceeding with the suspension.

“The Senate’s defiance undermines the judiciary’s integrity and sets a dangerous precedent,” Dantani stated. “Institutions tasked with lawmaking must exemplify respect for legal processes to uphold public trust in governance.”

Critics argue the suspension reflects a broader disregard for constitutional principles and judicial independence, raising concerns about accountability within Nigeria’s legislative body.