By Oso Abidemi
The Nigerian Senate has declared its intention to act with caution and uphold due process following a Federal High Court ruling that ordered the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The decision comes after Justice Binta Nyako, in a judgment delivered on July 4, declared Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension as unconstitutional and disproportionate.
The court directed the Kogi Central senator’s immediate return to her legislative duties, noting that her prolonged suspension deprived her constituents of representation.
In response, Senate spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, said the Red Chamber would not make any hasty move until it receives the Certified True Copy (CTC), of the court judgment.
“We acknowledge the court’s decision. However, as a responsible institution, we are duty-bound to act only after receiving and reviewing the Certified True Copy of the judgment. The Senate remains committed to the rule of law and internal legislative protocols,” Adaramodu stated.
Meanwhile, the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN), has urged restraint in the wake of the ruling, cautioning civil society organisations against staging protests.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the Council’s Executive Director, Ambassador Blessing Akinlosotu, described such protest calls as unwarranted and harmful to the integrity of both the judiciary and the legislature.
Akinlosotu stressed the need for stakeholders to allow due process to take its full course, reinforcing that lawful procedures remain the cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy.
While the court ruled in favour of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reinstatement, it also reaffirmed the Senate’s constitutional authority to discipline its members.
It further imposed a ₦5 million fine on the lawmaker and ordered her to issue a public apology within seven days for contempt of court.
The reinstatement order and accompanying directives mark a significant legal and political development, with observers closely watching how the Senate will proceed once it receives the official court documentation.
