Senator Natasha fined ₦5m for contempt as Senate faces recall order

A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Senate to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan after declaring her six‑month suspension excessive and unconstitutional. In the same ruling, Justice Binta Nyako found her guilty of contempt for publicly commenting on the matter in violation of a court‐imposed gag order, and fined her ₦5 million. Here’s a detailed look at what transpired and what it means for the Senate and her political future.

Excessive Suspension Deemed Unconstitutional

Justice Nyako ruled that the Senate’s six‑month suspension of Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan for seat row allegations effectively denied her constituents their right to representation. The judge stated that with only 181 sitting days in a legislative year, the suspension’s length was unjust, nearly equivalent to a full term. She described the Senate’s action as “overreaching” and ordered her immediate recall.

Fine Imposed for Violating Court Gag Order

The court found Akpoti‑Uduaghan guilty of contempt for publicly commenting on the case via social media, in breach of a gag order issued in April. Justice Nyako imposed a ₦5 million fine and required her to publish a formal apology in two national newspapers and on her Facebook page within seven days.

Senate’s Authority Acknowledged—but Limited

While affirming the Senate’s power to discipline members, the court clarified that such disciplinary measures must respect constitutional safeguards. It stressed that punitive actions cannot deprive constituents of representation. Additionally, the ruling indicated that Senate President Godswill Akpabio acted within his rights when denying her the floor, as she had not occupied her designated seat during plenary.

Recall Directive for Natasha’s Immediate Return

With the suspension ruled invalid, the Federal High Court directed the Senate to promptly recall Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan to resume her legislative duties for Kogi Central. This mandate underscores the judiciary’s role in protecting the democratic rights of constituents.

Contempt Ruling Highlights Gag Order Enforcement

The contempt ruling followed Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s April satirical Facebook post “apologising” to Akpabio, which violated the court’s April 4 order prohibiting public comments on the dispute. Justice Nyako clarified that this constituted a civil contempt offence, punishable by fine but not imprisonment.

Background: Seat Dispute Triggers Suspension

The conflict originated in February 2025 when Natasha accused the Senate President of sexual harassment and objected to her assigned seat in the chamber. The Senate Ethics Committee dismissed her allegations due to procedural issues and recommended her suspension. The Senate followed with a six‑month suspension in March, revoking her salary, benefits, security, and access to her office.

Legal Challenge and Recall Petition Timeline

Natasha challenged the suspension in court, seeking a recall and citing its disproportionate impact on representation. In March, a Lokoja court had already ruled that a recall process was constitutional and aligned with INEC regulations. The recent Abuja judgment builds on that decision, now legally compelling her reinstatement.

Political and Public Reactions

Reactions have been mixed. Some senators defended the original suspension as necessary to maintain internal discipline, while others viewed it as excessive. Civil society groups, such as the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties and the Coalition of National Civil Society Organizations, have criticized the suspension as undemocratic. Social media features both support and criticism of Natasha’s actions, suggesting a nation divided on parliamentary decorum versus constituents’ rights.

What Happens Now?

The Senate must now comply with the court’s recall order. Natasha is expected to be reinstated in plenary sessions and regain her privileges. She must also settle the ₦5 million fine and publish the required apology. Moving forward, both the Senate and judiciary have highlighted the need for checks and balances: disciplinary measures must not infringe upon electoral representation.

This landmark ruling underscores the judiciary’s role in preserving democratic representation while clarifying the limits of legislative discipline. Senator Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan’s imminent return to the Senate signals a rare judicial intervention in legislative affairs, one that may reset the standards for future parliamentary sanctions.