Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has scheduled 27 June for judgment in the legal challenge brought by suspended Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, over her removal from the Senate.
Akpoti-Uduaghan is contesting her suspension, which was initiated by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on allegations of misconduct—a decision she claims was unjust and politically motivated.
READ ALSO: Akpabio’s contempt claims against Natasha holds Tuesday
In her suit, she named the National Assembly, the Senate, the Senate President, and Senator Neda Imasuen—Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct—as respondents.
Originally assigned to Justice Obiorah Egwuatu, the case was later reassigned to Justice Nyako following Egwuatu’s withdrawal.
At Monday’s hearing, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lead counsel, Jibrin Okutekpa, confirmed that all required documents had been filed in compliance with previous court directives.
Lawyers representing the Senate and Senate President—Paul Daudu and Ekwo Ejembi—also confirmed their submissions but raised a fresh issue regarding alleged contempt.
They accused the senator of flouting a court order by posting a sarcastic apology to the Senate President on Facebook on 27 March, which was also published in several newspapers.
“The plaintiff has responded to our motion,” the defence lawyers said, referring to the contempt proceedings initiated against her.
In response, Michael Numan, another member of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team, argued that the alleged publication bore no direct link to his client.
READ ALSO: Akpabio seeks court order against Natasha over satirical apology
He reminded the court that the plaintiff had earlier filed a separate motion alleging disobedience by the defendants.
Justice Nyako will deliver her ruling on the matter on 27 June.
