Court Upholds Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s Suspension, Cancels ₦5 Million Fine

The Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal on Monday ruled that the Senate was within its constitutional rights when it suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan of Kogi Central for alleged misconduct. The appellate panel delivered a unanimous decision confirming that the upper chamber acted lawfully in disciplining the lawmaker under its internal rules.

While the court agreed that the Senate had authority to enforce its standing orders and regulate the conduct of members, it overturned a ₦5 million penalty and the order to apologise that had previously been issued against the senator in connection with a controversial satirical statement she made.

Justices on the panel held that the contempt ruling and fine were procedurally flawed and could not stand, effectively clearing that portion of the case in Senator Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s favour.

The legal battle started after the senator challenged her suspension — which stemmed from a dispute over her conduct and refusal to comply with seating directives during a Senate session — and subsequent sanctions handed down by a Federal High Court. The Appeal Court’s verdict now returns the matter to its legislative context while removing the financial penalty she faced.