Akpabio Files Appeal to Overturn Court Order Recalling Natasha

Akpabio Files Appeal to Overturn Court Order Recalling Senator Natasha .
He argues courts shouldn’t interfere in Senate’s internal affairs.
He seeks dismissal of suit, citing jurisdictional and procedural issues.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has filed a notice of appeal at the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, challenging a Federal High Court judgment that ordered the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate following her suspension.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the appeal, dated July 14, 2025, stems from a ruling delivered on July 4 by Justice Binta Nyako. The court had declared Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension “excessive and legally unjustified” and ordered her reinstatement.

Akpabio, in his 11 grounds of appeal, argues the court exceeded its constitutional limits by delving into internal affairs of the National Assembly. His legal team cited Section 251 of the 1999 Constitution and Section 21 of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, arguing that the court lacked jurisdiction as Akpoti-Uduaghan failed to issue the required pre-litigation notice to the National Assembly Clerk.

He also faulted the trial court for dismissing his preliminary objection, combining interlocutory and substantive reliefs, and making what he called “advisory opinions” on Senate procedures. Akpabio insists that disputes relating to conduct and privileges of lawmakers should be resolved internally, particularly by the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges.

Further, he accused the trial judge of breaching fair hearing by raising issues unprompted and recommending Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recall without hearing from all parties.

Akpabio is urging the appellate court to allow his appeal, strike out duplicated reliefs in Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suit, and dismiss the case entirely for want of jurisdiction.