High-stakes political standoff continues as Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan faces contempt charges
Abuja, Nigeria – The Senate issued a stern warning to suspended Kogi lawmaker Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, telling her to stay away from chambers until her suspension officially ends. The dramatic escalation comes amid growing confusion over what a Federal High Court actually ordered regarding her case.
Senate Committee Chairman on Media and Public Affairs Senator Yemi Adaramodu made it clear: no court has ordered the Senate to bring back the controversial lawmaker.
What the Court Really Said
Recent headlines suggested Akpoti-Uduaghan could return immediately, but Adaramodu painted a different picture. The Federal High Court offered suggestions, not commands.
“The Honourable Court gave a non-binding advisory urging the Senate to consider amending its Standing Orders and reviewing the suspension, which it opined might be excessive,” Adaramodu explained during a heated press briefing.
The court actually upheld the Senate’s disciplinary action as completely legal. This detail seems lost in the political noise surrounding the case.
The ₦5 Million Problem
Here’s where things get interesting. The same court that supposedly supports Akpoti-Uduaghan also found her guilty of contempt. She owes ₦5 million and must apologize publicly. Neither has happened.
This creates an awkward situation. How can someone claim court support while ignoring court penalties?
“It is therefore surprising and legally untenable that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is attempting to act upon an imaginary order of recall that does not exist,” Adaramodu stated with obvious frustration.
Political Theater or Legal Process?
The Senate appears tired of repeating itself. This marks the third public clarification about the Kogi lawmaker’s suspension. Each statement grows more pointed.
Adaramodu urged Akpoti-Uduaghan to respect due process and stay away from Senate chambers. The message seems simple: pay your fines, apologize, and wait.
The political drama continues while Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber tries to maintain order and dignity.
By Abdullah Korede
