COURT UPHOLDS AKPABIO’S HAND: SUIT CHALLENGING SENATOR NATASHA’S SUSPENSION THROWN OUT

Abuja – In a landmark ruling that reaffirmed the Senate’s internal disciplinary powers, the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday dismissed a suit challenging the suspension of Senator Natasha Uduaghan-Apoti of Kogi Central Senatorial District.

Justice James Omotosho, presiding over the case, ruled that the plaintiffs—Ovavu Illiyasu and nine others—had no legal standing (locus standi) to question the Senate’s decision, declaring the action incompetent and devoid of merit.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/654/2025, was filed to contest the six-month suspension slammed on Senator Uduaghan-Apoti by Senate President Godswill Akpabio over alleged misconduct. The plaintiffs had argued that the suspension would unjustly deprive the people of Kogi Central of representation in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

However, Justice Omotosho held that the Constitution did not grant the claimants the right to sue on behalf of the Senator, stressing that only Uduaghan-Apoti herself could legally challenge the disciplinary measure.

> “The plaintiffs lack the requisite locus standi to institute this action. The suit is hereby dismissed,” the judge ruled.

The judgment effectively leaves Senator Uduaghan-Apoti’s suspension intact, marking a major win for Akpabio’s camp and reinforcing the autonomy of the Senate to discipline its members without external interference.

Observers say the ruling may set a precedent for future disputes between constituents and the National Assembly, as questions linger over the balance between legislative independence and the right of citizens to enjoy uninterrupted representation.