The Law Speaks, But Senate Doesn’t Listen
Byline: IDNN Politics Desk
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s dramatic standoff with the Nigerian Senate isn’t just a political spat — it’s a constitutional crisis.
Despite a clear ruling by Justice Binta Nyako invalidating her suspension, Akpoti was blocked from entering the National Assembly complex. Police officers sealed the gates. Five patrol vehicles were stationed outside. No statement. No explanation.
“Akpabio isn’t above the law. I was elected by my people — not appointed by the Senate President,” she declared.
Joined by activist Aisha Yesufu, the pair were met with silence and stone-faced security.
“This is cowardice,” Yesufu thundered. “Who sent you? Who gave the order? You can’t say. That’s shameful.”
A Legal Battle with Democratic Consequences
The Senate insists it’s appealing the judgment — but lawyers argue an appeal does not invalidate an existing order.
“The court has ruled. Anything less than compliance is contempt,” said her counsel, West Idahosa.
Observers warn this signals a dangerous precedent where court rulings are cherry-picked by lawmakers — weakening the pillars of democratic accountability.
