Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Binta Nyako held that the Senate exceeded its legal authority by imposing a lengthy suspension without clear statutory backing. The court ruled that while legislative bodies may discipline their members, such sanctions must not infringe on the right of constituents to be represented in the National Assembly.

Justice Nyako observed that the suspension, which nearly matched the minimum number of sitting days in a legislative year, effectively denied the people of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituency their voice in the Senate—a move deemed excessive and undemocratic.

The court found that the relevant legislative rules cited by the Senate did not specify a limit for suspension duration, rendering the six-month term overreaching and without lawful justification.

However, the court also ruled that Senate President Godswill Akpabio did not violate the senator’s rights when he barred her from speaking on the Senate floor for not occupying her assigned seat. That specific action, the judge noted, did not amount to a breach of procedure or fundamental rights.

In a separate ruling, the court imposed a monetary sanction on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for violating an earlier judicial order that restrained both parties from commenting publicly on the matter while the case was ongoing.

The judgment marks a significant reinforcement of judicial oversight over legislative conduct, affirming the role of the courts in protecting constitutional rights and ensuring elected officials remain accountable to the electorate.

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The suspension followed recommendations by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which found her guilty after investigations.

Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of obstructing her legislative motions and making derogatory remarks during a heated Senate session.

She also alleged that Akpabio referred to her as a “nightclub girl,” a statement he later apologized for publicly.

Presenting the committee’s findings during Thursday’s plenary, Chairman Senator Neda Imasuen said her non-compliance led to being found completely guilty.

The committee recommended that her salary and security details be withdrawn throughout the entire duration of the six-month suspension.

Additionally, the committee advised her to issue a formal apology to the Senate for actions considered disrespectful towards the institution.

As a result, she will be barred from accessing the National Assembly premises, and her office will remain completely locked.

During deliberations, Senator Abba Moro requested leniency, suggesting that the suspension period be reduced from six months to three.

He argued that three months would be sufficient for some level of restitution and reconciliation within the legislative chamber.

Despite his appeal, the Senate upheld the committee’s recommendations, marking a significant development in the ongoing controversy.

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