Falana: Probing Natasha Akpoti’s IPU Attendance Will Embarrass Nigeria

Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has voiced strong objections to the recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as “legislative recklessness” and an abuse of power. He emphasized that Nigerian courts have consistently overturned such suspensions, citing multiple precedents where legislators were reinstated after unlawful removals.

Falana highlighted that since 2010, every legislator suspended by national or state assemblies has been reinstated by the courts. He referenced notable cases, including the 2010 suspension of Dino Melaye and others, which was declared illegal, and the 2012 case of Honourable Rifkatu Danna, whose suspension by the Bauchi State House of Assembly was overturned by the court.

In response to reports that security agencies are investigating Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attendance at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in New York, Falana warned that such probes could lead to unnecessary embarrassment for Nigeria. He argued that the investigation might expose the country to “needless embarrassment and undeserved ridicule,” especially considering that Akpoti-Uduaghan attended the IPU meeting to address her suspension and allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Falana urged the Senate to reverse Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension promptly, emphasizing that suspending legislators at the discretion of legislative leaders undermines democratic principles and the rights of constituents to representation. He called for adherence to legal precedents and respect for the rule of law in handling such matters.