Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, on Tuesday, appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja as the hearing of a contempt case filed against her by Senate President Godswill Akpabio commenced. The Senate President, however, was conspicuously absent from the proceedings, which drew significant attention.
The legal battle stems from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension by the Senate, a move she claims violated her rights and defied a pending court order. The contempt proceedings were initiated by Akpabio, who alleged that the senator flouted a court directive through a Facebook post and other actions following her suspension.
Justice Binta Nyako, presiding over the case, had earlier fixed May 13, 2025, for the hearing after dismissing preliminary objections raised by Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel. The court insisted that the contempt claims must be addressed before delving into the substantive suit challenging the senator’s suspension.
During Tuesday’s session, Akpoti-Uduaghan, accompanied by her legal team, was present in court, while Akpabio’s absence sparked murmurs among observers. Sources close to the Senate President’s camp cited scheduling conflicts, but no official reason was provided for his non-appearance. The court proceeded with preliminary arguments, with both parties presenting their positions on the contempt allegations.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel argued that the suspension was unlawful and an attempt to silence her advocacy for her constituents. They further contended that the contempt claims were a distraction from the core issue of her wrongful suspension. The plaintiff’s team, however, maintained that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions constituted a direct affront to the court’s authority.
Justice Nyako adjourned the case to a later date for further hearing, directing both parties to file additional documents to support their claims. The adjournment has heightened anticipation, as the case continues to stir public interest and debates on the Senate’s internal processes.
Speaking to journalists outside the courtroom, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed confidence in the judiciary, stating, “I am here to defend my rights and those of my people. The truth will prevail, and justice will be served.”
The case has drawn reactions from various quarters, with some Nigerians on social media platforms questioning the Senate’s handling of the matter. Others have called for transparency and fairness in the resolution of the dispute.
As the legal tussle unfolds, all eyes remain on the Federal High Court, with many awaiting the next phase of what promises to be a landmark case in Nigeria’s legislative history.
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