By Adenike Lawal
The Federal High Court has found Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central guilty of contempt and ordered her to publicly apologize and pay a ₦5 million fine to the Federal Government.
The court directed that the apology be published in two national newspapers and on her official Facebook page within seven days.
In a related ruling, the court also ordered her immediate reinstatement to the Senate, declaring her six-month suspension unlawful and in violation of Section 14(2) of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act.
The judge described the Senate’s action as excessive and undemocratic, stressing that constituents should not be denied representation due to internal disciplinary processes.
The ruling underscores both the accountability of lawmakers and the importance of upholding democratic representation.
