Federal High Court Rules Six-Month Suspension Unconstitutional, Orders Immediate Reinstatement

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the suspended lawmaker representing Kogi Central, has announced she will return to the Senate on Tuesday following a court ruling that declared her suspension unlawful.

The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, last Friday ruled that the six-month suspension imposed on the senator was “excessive, unconstitutional, and a violation of the rights of her constituents.” The court ordered her immediate reinstatement.

Akpoti-Uduaghan made the announcement in a video shared on social media, addressing jubilant supporters who had stood by her during the legal battle.

“I thank you for your support. I am glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God,” she said.

The suspension stemmed from a satirical apology the senator posted on social media directed at Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which the Senate deemed offensive. However, Justice Nyako ruled that the post violated a March 4, 2025 interim injunction barring parties from making public statements about the case.

Despite the legal setback for the Senate leadership, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return marks a significant victory for her constituents and supporters who argued that the suspension was politically motivated.

The senate is yet to issue a statement.