In a surprising twist, Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has withdrawn from the case filed by suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The judge cited a petition from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, questioning his impartiality, as the reason for stepping aside.
The case, which was set for hearing on Tuesday, took an unexpected turn when Justice Egwuatu announced his decision in a brief ruling, stating that the case file would be sent back to the Chief Judge for reassignment to another judge.
Why Was Natasha in Court?
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had taken legal action to halt disciplinary proceedings against her, arguing that the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions was acting beyond its powers. On March 4, Justice Egwuatu issued an interim order stopping the Senate from proceeding with her suspension, directing that due process be followed before any disciplinary action.
He also gave the defendants 72 hours to justify why the court shouldn’t issue an injunction preventing them from investigating her without proper constitutional and legislative backing. However, despite the court’s directive, the Senate Committee went ahead with its session and suspended her for six months.
Legal Fireworks: Akpabio Challenges Court’s Powers
In response, Senate President Akpabio, through his legal team led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Kehinde Ogunwumiju, questioned the court’s authority to interfere in the internal affairs of the Senate. This led to the controversial petition that ultimately resulted in Justice Egwuatu recusing himself from the case.
With the judge now stepping aside, all eyes are on the Chief Judge to see which new judge will handle the high-stakes legal battle. Will Natasha get justice, or is this a political chess game at play? The courtroom drama continues.
