The Federal High Court in Abuja has prohibited Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and the Senate from engaging in press interviews, television appearances, or social media posts about the ongoing legal challenge to the senator’s suspension.
Justice Binta Nyako issued this directive on Friday, emphasizing the need to safeguard the judicial process as the case remains unresolved.
Background of the Dispute
The controversy originates from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension by the Senate, effective March 6, 2025, following allegations of misconduct.
The suspension was triggered by events during a plenary session on February 20, 2025, which were referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct on February 25.
In response, the senator filed a motion ex parte, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025, against the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate, Senate President Akpabio, and Committee Chairman Senator Neda Imasuem.
She sought an interim injunction to halt the committee’s investigation pending the resolution of her challenge.
The case initially came before Justice Obiora Egwuatu, who stepped aside after one defendant accused him of bias. Chief Judge John Tsoho reassigned it to Justice Binta Nyako, setting the stage for Friday’s pivotal hearing.
Courtroom Developments
At the resumed hearing, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel, J.S. Okutepa SAN, underscored the urgency of the matter, noting that the six-month suspension clock was ticking.
He urged the court to expedite proceedings. Counsels for the defendants Charles Iyoila (Clerk of the National Assembly), Chikaosolu Ojukwu SAN (Senate), Kehinde Ogunwumiju SAN (Akpabio), and Umeh Kalu SAN (Imasuem) concurred, agreeing to streamline the process.
Tensions flared when Ogunwumiju accused Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan of prejudicing the case by granting interviews to outlets like BBC and CNN.
Okutepa countered, pointing out that a senator from the South East had also been discussing the matter on television. He insisted that any restrictions must apply universally to all parties and their associates.
Justice Nyako’s Ruling
Justice Binta Nyako responded decisively, ordering a comprehensive media blackout. “There should be no press interviews by parties and counsel as regards the subject matter of this case,” she declared.
She further banned “streaming or social media posts” and “TV interviews analyzing the subject matter” while the case is sub judice. Describing it as a “total media blockade,” she stressed that compliance was essential until the court resolves the dispute. The matter was adjourned to May 12, 2025, for further hearing.
The Backstory and Broader Context
The suspension traces back to a publicized clash between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Akpabio. During a plenary session, she was asked to change her seat, sparking friction.
On February 28, 2025, she escalated the dispute by alleging that Akpabio had made inappropriate advances toward her during a visit to his home in December 2023. The Senate cited violations of its rules as the basis for her suspension, a decision that has divided opinions.
Some lawmakers and analysts defend the suspension as a vital enforcement of legislative discipline. Critics, however, warn that the six-month penalty is excessive and risks suppressing dissent within the Senate.
The court’s gag order reflects the case’s sensitivity and the judiciary’s commitment to an impartial process. As the legal battle unfolds, the May 12, 2025, hearing will be a critical juncture in determining whether Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension stands. For now, all parties must adhere to the media silence, leaving the public awaiting the court’s final verdict
