ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 11, 2025 — In a bold move that could redefine political representation in Nigeria, ten outraged constituents from Kogi Central Senatorial District have filed a landmark lawsuit against the Nigerian Senate, challenging what they describe as an unconstitutional and unjust suspension of their elected representative, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The legal action, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja on April 4, 2025, is aimed at enforcing the applicants’ fundamental rights to political participation as guaranteed under Article 13(1) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The Case at a Glance
The plaintiffs — Ovavu Iliyasu, Isah Otini, Onivehu Amoto, Isah Mediant, Ogunmola Samuel, Umar Oyiza, Megida Sadiq, Siyaka Akinlade, Michael Ademola, and Ananyi Omeiza, are suing both the Senate President and the Nigerian Senate as first and second respondents, respectively.
Their primary contention? That the suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan on March 6, 2025, over alleged misconduct, effectively robs hundreds of thousands of Kogi Central constituents of their democratic right to representation.
“The suspension is not just an attack on Senator Natasha, it’s an attack on every voice in Kogi Central that voted her into office,” stated one of the applicants.
What the Plaintiffs Are Demanding
The suit rests on eight legal grounds and seeks seven major reliefs, including:
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A declaration that the Senate lacks the constitutional power to suspend the senator.
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A court order setting aside the suspension immediately.
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An injunction to prevent any further actions by the Senate that could infringe on the political rights of the constituents.
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Restoration of all rights and privileges to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, including access to the National Assembly, participation in debates, office use, and payment of all withheld entitlements.
The applicants argue that by suspending their senator, the Senate has stripped Kogi Central of its voice in national decision-making, effectively sidelining them from the democratic process.
Falana on the Frontlines
Renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) is leading the legal charge for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. He argues that the suspension is both unconstitutional and illegal, referencing the African Charter as the legal foundation for their case.
“No arm of government should have the power to silence the people’s choice,” said Falana. “This is about protecting democracy.”
The Bigger Picture
This case may set a powerful precedent for electoral justice and legislative accountability in Nigeria. With over five local government areas and hundreds of thousands of residents affected, the plaintiffs insist this isn’t just a political issue, it’s a human rights issue.
“When a senator is suspended unjustly, it’s the people who suffer,” reads part of the suit. “The whole federation loses when a strong voice like Natasha’s is silenced.”
A court date has not yet been scheduled, but political analysts are already watching closely, with many calling it a defining moment for legislative independence and democratic representation in Nigeria.
What’s at stake? The right of Nigerians to be represented by their chosen leaders, and whether any chamber has the authority to mute the will of the people.
Stay tuned as this explosive case unfolds. Will the courts uphold the people’s right to be heard? Or will politics silence democracy once again?
