Akpabio Escalates Dispute Against Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan -

The controversy surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has intensified as Senate President Godswill Akpabio has taken the matter to the Supreme Court.

Court documents obtained on Thursday show that Akpabio filed an application seeking to regularise and sustain his appeal against previous rulings by lower courts that had challenged the lawfulness of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension. The case is listed under SC NO: SC/CV/1111/2025 and Appeal No: CA/ABJ/CV/1107/2025.

The dispute dates back to February 2025, when Akpoti-Uduaghan raised concerns over parliamentary privilege and alleged procedural breaches during a plenary session. The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions subsequently recommended her suspension.

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Following the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, claiming her right to a fair hearing was violated. On July 4, 2025, the court ruled that the suspension was excessive and unconstitutional.

Dissatisfied with these rulings, Akpabio has escalated the matter to the Supreme Court, requesting an extension of time to apply for leave to appeal and confirmation that his notice of appeal and brief of argument are properly filed.

He maintains that the Senate acted within its powers under Section 60 of the 1999 Constitution, which allows it to regulate its internal procedures.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, however, insists her suspension was unlawful and that the Senate failed to follow its own rules. Her legal team has been officially served with the Supreme Court processes.

The case also involves a related contempt issue tied to a social media post by Akpoti-Uduaghan during the proceedings, for which she was fined and ordered to issue a public apology.

Legal observers say the Supreme Court’s ruling could clarify the limits of legislative disciplinary powers and the role of judicial oversight in such matters.

Akpoti-Uduaghan resumed her Senate duties on September 23, 2025, after completing a six-month suspension. However, her return to office was initially blocked due to the ongoing legal battles with the Senate leadership.