Abuja, Nigeria – Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has stepped down from hearing the lawsuit filed by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing a petition from Senate President Godswill Akpabio that questioned his impartiality.
The decision was announced during a court session on Tuesday, March 25, where the judge stated that he would return the case file to the Chief Judge for reassignment to another judge. The development has raised concerns over judicial independence and the growing tension between the legislative and judicial arms of government.
The case stems from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which accused her of violating legislative rules. In response, the senator approached the court, challenging the disciplinary process and alleging a lack of due process in the proceedings against her.
On March 4, 2025, Justice Egwuatu had issued an interim order restraining the Senate from continuing the disciplinary action until the case was fully determined. He also directed the defendants, including the Senate President and the committee, to explain within 72 hours why an injunction should not be issued to halt their actions.
Despite the court’s ruling, the Senate proceeded with its hearing, ultimately suspending Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. This led to further legal battles, with the judge later amending his previous order to allow the Senate to continue its internal affairs, while the case remained pending in court.
Following these developments, Senate President Akpabio, through his legal team, raised concerns over the court’s involvement in Senate matters, arguing that the judiciary should not interfere in legislative proceedings. His petition specifically questioned Justice Egwuatu’s neutrality, prompting the judge to withdraw from the case to ensure fairness and avoid any conflict of interest.
With Justice Egwuatu stepping aside, the case will now be reassigned to another judge, potentially delaying the legal battle between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate leadership.
Legal experts have expressed concerns that this development could set a precedent for political interference in judicial matters, particularly when high-profile figures challenge court rulings.
For now, the suspended senator remains out of office, while the Senate and judiciary continue to navigate the constitutional questions surrounding the case. The reassignment of the case will determine the next phase of the legal showdown, as Akpoti-Uduaghan seeks reinstatement and a ruling on whether her suspension was lawful.
