• About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy & Policy
Thursday, October 30, 2025
Umpirenews | Latest News, Politics, Breaking News, Nigeria and African history
Advertisement
  • National
  • Politics
  • Economy
  • Entertainment
  • Sports
  • Editorial
  • Opinion
  • Columns
No Result
View All Result
  • National
  • Politics
  • Economy
  • Entertainment
  • Sports
  • Editorial
  • Opinion
  • Columns
No Result
View All Result
Umpirenews | Latest News, Politics, Breaking News, Nigeria and African history
No Result
View All Result

NASS: CONSTITUTIONALITY OF NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN’S SUSPENSION

Steven Atogi by Steven Atogi
March 17, 2025
in Editorial
Reading Time: 4 mins read
A A
0
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
Share on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on WhatsappShare on EmailShare on Telegram

The recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Nigerian Senate has ignited a significant debate

concerning the constitutionality of such an action and its implications for democratic governance in Nigeria. Legal

experts and civil society organizations have criticized the suspension, labeling it unconstitutional and a violation of

both the senator’s rights and those of her constituents.

On March 6, 2025, the Nigerian Senate suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, for

six months. The Senate’s Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct Committee recommended the suspension, citing

alleged misconduct, including refusal to sit in her assigned seat, speaking without recognition, and making abusive

remarks against the Senate leadership. This decision came shortly after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President

Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, an allegation Akpabio has denied.

Legal experts have unanimously condemned the suspension as unconstitutional. Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of

Nigeria (SAN), highlighted that multiple court rulings have declared legislative suspensions illegal. He referenced past

cases where the judiciary ruled against such actions, emphasizing that the Senate’s decision disregarded a valid

court order and set a dangerous precedent for legislative overreach.

Similarly, Kunle Edun, another legal expert, criticized the Senate’s action, noting that Order 67(4) of the Senate Rules

stipulates that a senator can only be suspended for a period not exceeding 14 days. He argued that suspending a

legislator translates to an unconstitutional denial of the constituents’ right to representation in Parliament.

The suspension also raises concerns about the Senate’s adherence to judicial authority. A Federal High Court in Abuja

had barred the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct from proceeding with an investigation

against Akpoti-Uduaghan over alleged misconduct. Despite this, the Senate proceeded with the suspension,

prompting criticism from legal practitioners who viewed the action as lawless and unconstitutional.

You may also like:SMEs in Nigeria: Surviving Harsh Economic Conditions

The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic principles and the rule

of law. By sidelining an elected representative, the Senate not only undermines the will of the constituents but also

sets a concerning precedent for the treatment of dissenting voices within the legislative framework. Such actions can

erode public trust in democratic institutions and discourage active participation in governance.

In light of these developments, there have been widespread calls for the immediate reversal of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s

suspension. Advocates emphasize the need for the Senate to respect judicial rulings and uphold the rule of law to

maintain its legitimacy and the trust of the Nigerian populace. Ensuring that legislative actions align with

constitutional provisions is crucial for the health and sustainability of Nigeria’s democracy.

The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan serves as a critical test of Nigeria’s commitment to democratic ethics and the rule of law, especially in the Senate Godswill Akpabio led 10th Senate. It underscores the necessity for legislative bodies to operate within the confines of the constitution and respect judicial authority. As Nigeria continues in the struggle of strengthening its democratic institutions, adherence to legal frameworks and the protection of individual rights remain paramount.

Destroying the fabrics of society and sacred institutions and foundations such as rule of law, for personal gain portends grave consequences for the future of this country. Whether Senate president or whoever, all are equal before the law as stipulated in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Not even the president is above the law, else Nigeria would be worse than North Korea or Fascist Italy.

Steven Atogi

Steven Atogi

Steven Atogi is Editor-in-chief at Umpire News. Formerly Editor-in-chief at DreamsNG Magazine. A skilled editor, writer and researcher with over a decade experience in politics, economy, sports and entertainment news editing; feature writing, copywriting and digital news sourcing. He has published in traditional and new media across local and international media outlets. He is keen on public policy, politics, economy, and social justice themes.

Related Posts

Trump Tariff Policy: Nigerian Exporters Alarmed
Editorial

Trump Tariff Policy: Nigerian Exporters Alarmed

6 months ago
Insecurity
Editorial

Rising Insecurity Threatens Nigeria’s Food Security

7 months ago
Suspension of Governor Fubara: A Constitutional Aberration by NADECO Former Activist
Editorial

Suspension of Governor Fubara: A Constitutional Aberration by NADECO Former Activist

7 months ago
SMEs in Nigeria: Surviving Harsh Economic Conditions
Editorial

SMEs in Nigeria: Surviving Harsh Economic Conditions

8 months ago

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

I agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

NATIONS NEWS

Carabao Cup: Why we lost to Crystal Palace – Arne Slot
National

Carabao Cup: Why we lost to Crystal Palace – Arne Slot

6 hours ago
INEC should start prosecuting electoral offenders – Oshoma
National

INEC should start prosecuting electoral offenders – Oshoma

6 hours ago
Peter Obi Can Return to PDP Without Wike Obstruction – Jacob Mark
National

PDP will become stronger, united after convention – Nasarawa chairman

6 hours ago
Taraba gov, Kefas set to defect to APC
National

APC youths oppose governor Kefas’s defection move

6 hours ago
We will keep insurgents on their toes – New Chief of Air Staff
National

We will keep insurgents on their toes – New Chief of Air Staff

6 hours ago
2027: Other aspirants can contest against Tinubu for presidential ticket — APC
National

Without reducing cost of governance, reforms won’t succeed – Sanusi, Peterside tell FG

1 day ago

POLITICS

Peter Obi Can Return to PDP Without Wike Obstruction – Jacob Mark

PDP will become stronger, united after convention – Nasarawa chairman

6 hours ago
Taraba gov, Kefas set to defect to APC

APC youths oppose governor Kefas’s defection move

6 hours ago
Peter Obi Can Return to PDP Without Wike Obstruction – Jacob Mark

You’ve made terrible mistake defecting to APC – PDP tells lawmaker

1 day ago
PDP Has No Chance in 2027, Says Former APC Treasurer

Edo APC to suspend commissioners not wearing cap with Tinubu insignia

2 days ago
Peter Obi, El-Rufai Granted Waiver Ahead 2027 Election

Anambra election: Soludo inducing voters with cash-for-votes — ADC

3 days ago
Peter Obi Can Return to PDP Without Wike Obstruction – Jacob Mark

Mbah and other defectors will return to PDP – Ogidi

1 week ago

YOUR ECONOMY

APC National Chairman Yilwatda Pledges Tinubu-Style Leadership Through Teamwork and Bold Decision-Making
Economy

Economic hardship cause of human trafficking in Nigeria – APC National Chair, Yilwatda

2 days ago
Dangote Refinery Boosts Fuel Supply as Petrol Price in Nigeria Rises to ₦955 Per Litre
Economy

Fuel price drops as marketers resume loading at Dangote Refinery

1 week ago
Dangote Refinery Boosts Fuel Supply as Petrol Price in Nigeria Rises to ₦955 Per Litre
Economy

Dangote Refinery Boosts Fuel Supply as Petrol Price in Nigeria Rises to ₦955 Per Litre

2 weeks ago
Dangote Refinery Begins Distribution of Petrol Nationwide
Economy

We never imported bad fuel – Dangote Refinery

3 weeks ago
Naira Appreciates to N1,465/$ as External Reserves Reserves Jump to $42.4bn
Economy

Naira Appreciates to N1,465/$ as External Reserves Reserves Jump to $42.4bn

4 weeks ago
BREAKING NEWS: PENGASSAN Declares Nationwide Strike.
Economy

BREAKING NEWS: PENGASSAN calls off strike

4 weeks ago

E & P

WE ARE UPGRADING SPORTS FACILITIES, NOT TO CONVERT FOOTBALL PITCH – Albert Dede 
Sports

WE ARE UPGRADING SPORTS FACILITIES, NOT TO CONVERT FOOTBALL PITCH – Albert Dede 

by Steven Atogi
1 week ago
0

The principal of Baptist High Port Harcourt, Mr.Opuene Albert Dede has reiterated that the ongoing renovation in the school premises...

2026 World Cup qualifying play-offs: We are ready for Nigeria – Gabon coach

2026 World Cup qualifying play-offs: We are ready for Nigeria – Gabon coach

2 weeks ago
2026 World Cup playoffs: Super Eagles likely to play Gabon

2026 World Cup playoffs: Super Eagles likely to play Gabon

2 weeks ago
EPL: They’ll be beaten – Paul Scholes predicts winner in Liverpool vs Man Utd

EPL: They’ll be beaten – Paul Scholes predicts winner in Liverpool vs Man Utd

3 weeks ago
EPL: Amorim should use Mbeumo as striker over Sesko — Owen

EPL: Amorim should use Mbeumo as striker over Sesko — Owen

4 weeks ago
Xavi Hernandez hinted to replace Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford

Xavi Hernandez hinted to replace Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford

1 month ago

YOUR THOUGHT & HISTORY

NASS Rubber-Stamp Tinubu: PDP Chieftain Blasts Legislature, Calls Akpabio ‘Unfit’
National

NASS Rubber-Stamp Tinubu: PDP Chieftain Blasts Legislature, Calls Akpabio ‘Unfit’

by Steven Atogi
4 weeks ago
The Union, the Tycoon, and the State: Dangote versus PENGASSAN War, A New Precedent for Nigerian Labour
Opinion

The Union, the Tycoon, and the State: Dangote versus PENGASSAN War, A New Precedent for Nigerian Labour

by Odini Brains
1 month ago
HOW MR EAZI, OTEDOLA’S SON-IN-LAW, BUILT AN 18-COUNTRY EMPIRE
Opinion

HOW MR EAZI, OTEDOLA’S SON-IN-LAW, BUILT AN 18-COUNTRY EMPIRE

by Odini Brains
2 months ago
Mr Eazi and Temi Otedola: A Love Story That Traveled Three Continents
National

Mr Eazi and Temi Otedola: A Love Story That Traveled Three Continents

by Odini Brains
2 months ago
The Rise And Fall Of Sports Institute, Isaka
Columns

The Rise And Fall Of Sports Institute, Isaka

by Tammy Opoki
2 months ago

Who we are

Umpirenews | Latest News, Politics, Breaking News, Nigeria and African history

Welcome to Umpire News, your go-to online newspaper dedicated to broadening perspectives and expanding the horizons of our numerous readers. Read more

Browse by Category

  • Columns
  • Economy
  • Editorial
  • Entertainment
  • International
  • National
  • News
  • Opinion
  • Politics
  • Sports
  • Trends

Recent News

Carabao Cup: Why we lost to Crystal Palace – Arne Slot

Carabao Cup: Why we lost to Crystal Palace – Arne Slot

October 30, 2025
INEC should start prosecuting electoral offenders – Oshoma

INEC should start prosecuting electoral offenders – Oshoma

October 30, 2025
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy & Policy

© 2024 Copyright Umpirenews. All rights reserved

No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • National
  • Economy
  • Politics
  • Sports
  • Entertainment
  • Editorial
  • Opinion
  • Columns

© 2024 Copyright Umpirenews. All rights reserved

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this website you are giving consent to cookies being used. Visit our Privacy and Cookie Policy.

🤑Join & Get Our Easter Gifts 🤑

Enter your NAME & Email NOW!!

Be among the 1st 100 lucky WINNERS to win our Amazing GIFTs this Easter Period as you READ our Daily hot NEWs & make meaningful comments and follow us on our social media handles.

Name
Enter your email address