By A legal expert and fiery right activist, Oghenejabor Ikimi, Esq., has strongly condemned the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as unconstitutional and a violation of her constituents’ right to representation.
In a statement issued on Friday, the critic asserted that the Nigerian Senate lacks the legal authority to suspend a member.
He cited a precedent set by the Court of Appeal in Speaker, Bauchi State House of Assembly vs. Hon. Rifkatu Samson Danna (2017). The ruling held that a lawmaker, not being an employee of the legislature, could not be suspended or have their entitlements withheld.
Combo of Akpabio and Natasha
“The law is clear—no legislative house can suspend an elected representative, as this deprives their constituents of their constitutional right to representation,” the statement read.
The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was carried out under Senate House Rules, which prescribe a 14-day suspension for erring members.
However, the critic argued that these rules cannot override the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees her position.
“House Rules are subject to the Constitution. Where they conflict, the Constitution prevails,” the statement added, citing Section 1(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The legal expert further noted that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had already secured an order from a Federal High Court overturning the suspension and urged the Senate to comply immediately.
“I call on the Senate to rescind this lawless and unconstitutional decision. Enough of this disregard for the rule of law by our lawmakers.”
The Senate has yet to respond to the demands for reinstatement.
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