Judge Withdraws from Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Case Following Akpabio’s Petition
Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has recused himself from a case involving suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan after Senate President Godswill Akpabio filed a petition challenging his neutrality.
On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, Justice Egwuatu, who was initially assigned to hear the case, announced his decision to step down, stating that he would return the case file to the Chief Judge for reassignment.
The legal battle began after Egwuatu issued an interim order on March 4, preventing the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from proceeding with disciplinary actions against Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was accused of violating Senate rules.
His ruling also directed the defendants, including Senate officials, to justify within 72 hours why the investigation against the senator should continue without following the provisions of the 1999 Constitution, the Senate Standing Order 2023, and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act.
Despite the court’s injunction, the Senate Committee went ahead with its proceedings and suspended Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. Following an application from the defendants, Justice Egwuatu later amended his order, lifting restrictions on the Senate’s ability to take action while the case remained unresolved.
Akpabio’s legal team, led by Kehinde Ogunwumiju, subsequently challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the judiciary should not interfere in Senate affairs. This development led to concerns about judicial independence and political interference in the case.
With the judge’s withdrawal, all eyes are now on the Chief Judge to assign a new judicial officer to continue the high-profile case.
