Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan addresses supporters during her homecoming rally in Okehi LGA of Kogi state on Tuesday, April 1, 2025
A group of constituents from Kogi central senatorial district have filed a lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the upper legislative chamber.
The suit is challenging the six-month suspension of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, their representative.
The senate had suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months after rejecting the sexual harassment petition submitted by the senator against Akpabio.
Neda Imaseun, chairman of the senate committee on public conduct, ethics, privileges, and public petitions, said the panel’s report followed an investigation that deemed her in “total violation of senate rules”.
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The legal action, filed at the Abuja federal high court, and marked FHC/ABJ/CS/654/2025, argues that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension violates their constitutional right to political representation.
The applicants, represented by human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, contend that the March 6 suspension not only undermines democratic principles but also breaches Article 13(1) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which guarantees citizens the right to participate freely in their government through elected representatives.
They averred that the senator’s suspension has effectively silenced the voice of Kogi central in national debates and lawmaking processes.
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The plaintiffs argue that the senate acted without lawful justification and overstepped its powers.
They are seeking a declaration that the senate lacks the authority to suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan by virtue of Article 13 (1) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Right (Ratification and Enforcement) Act Cap A9 of the LFN 2004.
They also demand that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension be nullified and her full rights and privileges be restored — including access to her office, participation in senate proceedings, and payment of outstanding entitlements.
They are also seeking an injunction restraining the respondents from carrying out any act that would contravene their fundamental rights.
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The applicants are Ovavu Iliyasu, Isah Otini, Onivehu Amoto, Isah Mediant, Ogunmola Samuel, Umar Oyiza, Megida Sadiq, Siyaka Akinlade, Michael Ademola and Ananyi Omeiza.
No date has been fixed yet for the hearing.
