Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly praised Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for her courage in challenging her suspension from the Senate, describing her action as a bold assertion of her rights and a significant victory for Nigeria's democracy.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, had taken her case to the Federal High Court in Abuja after being handed a six-month suspension. On Friday, Justice Binta Nyako ruled in her favor, stating that the suspension was excessive and effectively denied her constituents their constitutional right to representation.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Atiku commended Justice Nyako for what he termed a "courageous ruling" that lifted the "obnoxious" suspension imposed on the senator.
"I also hail Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for challenging the illegality of her suspension by not sleeping on her rights in a chamber where women are already vulnerable. There's no price that is too great in asserting one's rights," the former Vice President stated.
The court's decision represents a significant development in Nigeria's legislative landscape, reinforcing the judiciary's role in checking parliamentary powers and protecting elected representatives' rights to fulfill their mandates.
This ruling comes amid growing concerns about the use of suspension as a disciplinary measure in Nigeria's legislative chambers and its impact on democratic representation.
Following the court's decision, there have been calls from various quarters for the Senate to respect the judgment and immediately recall Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to her legislative duties.
