A Federal High Court in Abuja has stopped the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from investigating Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The court order prevents the committee from taking any action against her until further legal review.

On Tuesday, March 4, Justice Obiora Egwuatu issued an interim order after Akpoti-Uduaghan’s lawyers filed a request. The Senate committee was planning to hold a hearing that could have led to her suspension. However, the court ruled that no action should be taken until the matter is fully reviewed.

The judge also directed that the National Assembly be formally notified of the ruling. This will be done by serving the documents to the Clerk of the National Assembly or publishing the details in two national newspapers.

The court further ordered the Senate to explain within 72 hours why they should be allowed to proceed with the investigation. It stated that any disciplinary action must follow the Nigerian Constitution, the Senate Standing Order 2023, and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act.

For now, this ruling protects Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from any Senate action against her. The case will continue in court, where a final decision will be made. Until then, the Senate cannot proceed with its investigation or impose any penalties on her.

This case highlights the ongoing legal and political battles within Nigeria’s Senate and the importance of following due process in disciplinary matters.