Nigeria Akpabio Appeals Court’s Ruling on Natasha Akpoti’s Suspension

The Digest:

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has filed an appeal against a federal high court ruling that directed the lifting of the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The case highlights the tension between legislative autonomy and judicial intervention.


Key Points:

• Akpabio is challenging the July 4, 2025, ruling, which described Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension as excessive.
• The court imposed a ₦5 million fine on Akpoti-Uduaghan for contempt related to a Facebook post.
• Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed her appeal, contesting the contempt ruling.
• Akpabio argues that the suspension and legislative matters are beyond judicial review.
• He claims that parliamentary procedures should not be interfered with by the judiciary.
• Akpabio’s appeal criticizes the trial judge for breaching judicial neutrality and procedural violations.
• The Senate President seeks to have the appellate court set aside the lower court’s decision.

The appeal signals a battle between the Senate’s disciplinary authority and the judicial system, as Akpabio seeks to uphold the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan and reinforce legislative independence.

Sources: TheCable, Premium Times, Channels TV