The Court of Appeal in Abuja has delivered a significant ruling, striking out two motions filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio in a legal battle involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The court, presided over by Justice Hamman Barka, also imposed a fine of N100,000 against Akpabio, marking a victory for the Kogi Central senator.
The motions, dated March 20 and March 25, 2025, were part of Akpabio’s appeal against a Federal High Court judgment in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025.
The lower court had restrained the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from taking disciplinary action against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Akpabio sought an extension of time to appeal the decision and other reliefs, but his legal team withdrew the motions during the appellate hearing, prompting the court to dismiss them.
The Court of Appeal’s enrolled order, signed by Deputy Chief Registrar Josephine J., stated, “Application seeking to withdraw the two Motions dated and filed on the 20/3/2025 and 25/3/2025 is granted and same struck out.
Cost of ₦100,000 awarded to the 1st Respondent.” No official reason was provided for the withdrawal by Akpabio’s counsel, Deborah D.
This ruling comes amid ongoing legal tensions involving Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Two Federal Capital Territory High Courts have also summoned Akpabio and Deputy Chief Whip Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi over allegations of defamation, sexual harassment, and violation of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s fundamental rights.
These cases, including Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/754/2025 before Justice Abubakar Idris Kutigi, involve additional parties such as a senior legislative aide to Akpabio and the Clerk of the National Assembly. A hearing for one of these cases is scheduled for June 9, 2025..
Many view the ruling as a significant moment for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, reinforcing her position against alleged attempts to undermine her role in the Senate.
The legal battle highlights broader issues of parliamentary conduct and the protection of senators’ rights.
As the case progresses, it is expected to draw further attention to the dynamics within Nigeria’s Senate and the judiciary’s role in upholding fairness.
Sources: Punchng
