In a dramatic legal twist, the Federal High Court in Lokoja has issued an interim injunction preventing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from processing any petition aimed at recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central. The ruling, delivered on March 20, 2025, bars INEC from accepting or acting on petitions that allegedly contain fictitious signatures, blocking any attempt to initiate a recall process based on fraudulent claims.
This court action follows growing political tensions in Kogi State, where there have been increasing calls to remove Akpoti-Uduaghan. The court’s decision, hailed as a win for due process by the plaintiffs’ legal team, prevents the electoral body from conducting any referendum related to the petition while the matter remains under legal review.
The ruling was issued after an ex-parte motion, supported by an urgent affidavit from the plaintiffs, including five registered voters from Kogi Central. The plaintiffs, represented by a legal team led by Smart Nwachimere, Esq., emphasized that the ruling upholds the principle of fairness in the electoral process, ensuring no one can manipulate the recall procedure.
Political analysts have underscored the significance of the court’s decision, highlighting the need for transparency and legitimacy in Nigeria’s electoral processes. Dr. Bamidele Ajayi, a political analyst, called the injunction a crucial step in protecting the integrity of the electoral system, preventing any flawed or fraudulent attempts to remove elected officials.
As the legal proceedings continue, this case is set to make waves in Nigerian electoral law, potentially shaping the future of recall processes across the country.
