Appeal Court Upholds Senate's Suspension of Natasha Akpoti, Cancels Contempt Fine

The Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal affirmed the Senate's decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, ruling that the upper legislative chamber acted within its constitutional procedures and powers. The three-member panel unanimously delivered the judgment on Monday in the appeal filed by Akpoti Uduaghan against the Clerk of the National Assembly and three others.

The court held that the suspension did not violate the Senate's parliamentary privileges or fundamental rights. However, the court set aside the contempt proceedings and the N5 million fine imposed on Akpoti.

The lead judgment by Justice Abba Muham stated that the Senate President, Godswil Akpabio, acted in line with Senate rules by denying Akpoti Uduaghan the opportunity to speak during a plenary session in February 2025. The court dismissed Akpoti Uduaghan's claim that she was entitled to prior notice of a seat change, stating that no provision in the Senate rules required such notification.

The court faulted the contempt proceedings and the N5 million fine imposed by Justice Binta Nyako, setting them aside.