Justice Binta Nyako ruled on July 4 that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension by the Senate for allegedly addressing the chamber from the wrong seat was excessive and unconstitutional.
Michael Numa (SAN), counsel to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has warned the National Assembly against defying a Federal High Court ruling ordering her reinstatement.
Michael Numa (SAN), counsel to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central), has warned the National Assembly to comply fully with a Federal High Court order directing her reinstatement.
Justice Binta Nyako ruled on July 4 that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension by the Senate for allegedly addressing the chamber from the wrong seat was excessive and unconstitutional.
In a rejoinder dated July 14, Numa reminded the Legal Services Directorate that the enrolled order included 12 directives. “Order 12, which states that ‘the Senate should recall the Plaintiff,’ must be read as part of a binding decision,” he noted.
Citing Section 287(3) of the Constitution, Numa stressed the duty of all authorities to obey court judgments. He warned that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan may pursue further legal action if the Senate blocks her return.
She is expected to resume on July 22, 2025.
The Senate President has appealed the ruling, and the upper chamber has yet to act on the judgment.