The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled Tuesday, May 13, 2025, for the definitive hearing of contempt allegations made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio against suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District.
Presiding Judge, Justice Binta Nyako, fixed the date after the second and third defendants informed the court that they had filed an application regarding alleged violations of court orders by the plaintiff.
Background of the Case
The legal dispute began after a disagreement over seating arrangements in the Senate on February 20, during which Akpoti-Uduaghan later accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment during a televised interview.
In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan filed an ex parte motion (FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025), seeking to restrain the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from investigating her. On March 4, the court granted an order restraining the Senate from any disciplinary action.
However, just two days later, the Senate suspended her, citing gross misconduct, despite the court’s injunction—a move considered contemptuous.
Social Media Violation Sparks Contempt Claims
During the resumed hearing on Monday, the defence, led by Paul Daudu, alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan violated a court order prohibiting media comments by posting a satirical apology on Facebook.
“The plaintiff herself posted a satirical apology on her Facebook page, which is a mockery of this court’s proceedings,” Daudu argued.
Akpabio’s lawyer, Ekoh Ejembi (SAN), supported the claim and presented a Punch newspaper article as evidence of the alleged violation.
Plaintiff’s Counsel Denies Violation
Lead counsel for Akpoti-Uduaghan, Jibrin Okutekpa (SAN), argued that the post had no connection to the contempt matter and urged the court to proceed with the substantive hearing, noting that the senator has been absent from the Senate for 68 cumulative days.
“The satirical post relates to a separate issue, not the one before the court,” Okutekpa said.
He further countered by raising a contempt allegation against all the defendants, accusing them of also flouting court orders.
Judge Warns of Consequences
Justice Nyako insisted that the issue of contempt must be resolved first before the main case proceeds.
“If there is contempt, I have to hear and determine it first,” she said.
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She also warned both parties sternly, stressing that any further disrespect of the court could lead to a summons and sanctions.
“You cannot allow your client to disrespect this court. If they are found in contempt, they will face punishment,” Justice Nyako added.
The court is expected to deliver key rulings when the matter resumes on May 13, 2025, a day that could determine the legal fate of Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate’s actions.
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