Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit challenging the legality of the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.
The suit, filed by Ovavu Illiyasu and nine others, sought to nullify the Senate’s decision to suspend the lawmaker over alleged misconduct. The plaintiffs argued that the suspension would leave their senatorial district without representation, thereby violating their constitutional right to adequate legislative representation.
In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/654/2025, the applicants urged the court to declare the suspension invalid and order Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s immediate reinstatement. They contended that the Senate acted beyond its powers by suspending a duly elected representative for such an extended period.
Delivering judgment, Justice Omotosho held that the plaintiffs lacked locus standi—the legal right to institute the action—as they failed to demonstrate a direct personal or legal injury arising from the suspension. He noted that while constituents have a general interest in the performance of their elected officials, such interest does not automatically confer the right to challenge internal disciplinary actions taken by the Senate.
The court further affirmed that the Senate has the constitutional authority to regulate its internal proceedings, including disciplining its members, provided due process is followed.
Consequently, the suit was dismissed in its entirety for lack of merit.
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